SB 702 - This act prohibits the expenditure of public funds to existing or proposed health and social services programs that directly or indirectly subsidize abortion services. An entity that is affiliated with another entity that provides abortion services may only receive public funds if the affiliated entity is an independent affiliate. Entities that provide counseling to pregnant women and receive public funds may only provide non-directive pregnancy counseling and may not display or distribute material promoting abortion services. This act also requires entities that receive public funds to maintain records that demonstrate strict compliance. An independent audit of these entities must be conducted at least once every three years. If the recipient of public funds is affiliated with an entity that provides abortion services, an audit must be conducted each year to ensure compliance. The act includes exceptions for reimbursement to entities that provide services that are required under federal Medicaid regulations and certain services required under the federal family planning program.
This act is identical to SB 164 (2005).
ADRIANE CROUSE