Fortenberry ‘Care for Life’ Bill Helps Mothers, Children

Washington, DC - Congressman Jeff Fortenberry today introduced the Care for Life Act of 2009, a bill to encourage and assist women in challenging circumstances who seek help during pregnancy and after childbirth.

“Persons in vulnerable circumstances deserve to know they are not alone during difficult times in their lives,” Fortenberry said.  “This bill would provide avenues of help to pregnant women and new mothers who lack adequate family and community support during such critical stages of life for them and their children.”

The Care for Life Act of 2009 provides for pre- and post-pregnancy life skills counseling to help new mothers build relationship skills, healthy marriage and family circumstances, and a strong foundation for raising their children.  It also seeks to facilitate and raise awareness of pregnancy support initiatives by leveraging outreach among federal, state, and local governments.  The bill would also target areas of greatest need by supporting both urban and rural outreach, helping to alleviate financial, social, emotional and other difficulties that may otherwise lead to decisions for abortion.

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