Topic: Helms Amendment

A new foreign aid spending bill passed by a House committee seeks to repeal the Helms Amendment, which has historically banned U.S. funds from being used for abortions abroad. Representative Barbara Lee and other Democrats argue the change is necessary for "women's reproductive health," while Republicans warn it will lead to U.S. taxpayers funding forced abortions in countries like China. The bill also aims to permanently remove the Mexico City Policy, which prevents funding for NGOs that advocate for abortion.