Rep. Gottheimer Votes, Speaks Out Against Anti-Abortion Bill [Video]

HACKETTSTOWN, NJ— Rep. Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) voted on Wednesday against HR-7, a controversial piece of legislation regarding funding for health insurance plans that also cover abortion. It was introduced by fellow New Jersey Representative, Chris Smith.

If signed into law, HR-7 would cut off funding for any federally funded insurance plans that provide abortion coverage, even if the funds are not being put toward the procedures.

Federal funding for abortion coverage has been illegal since 1976 under the Hyde Amendment, which had to be renewed every year. Under HR-7, the Hyde Amendment becomes permanent.

HR-7 would also ban abortions at any federally owned facilities or by federal employees. It does have exceptions for cases of rape, incest or when the life of the mother is in danger.

The bill passed in the House on Wednesday by a vote of 238 - 183. It has to be passed by the Senate before President Trump could sign it into law.

Ten states already prohibit insurance coverage of abortions. Another 15 states prohibit Obamacare recipients.

The bill would also raise taxes on small businesses and "impose burdens on servicewomen," Gottheimer's camp said Wednesday.

The legislation's approval came three days after hundreds of thousands of women marched on Washington, D.C. to rally against President Donald Trump and women's rights.

"I will always fight back against efforts to limit choice and women's health, and that's why I strongly oppose this bill," Gottheimer said on the House floor. "I urge my colleagues to turn their focus from rolling back women's rights and to focus on actually getting things done for the people of this country—creating jobs and lowering taxes."

A video of Gottheimer's complete remarks is here:

--With reporting by Daniel Hubbard (Patch Staff)

Photo: Rep. Josh Gottheimer — Courtesy of Josh Gottheimer's Congressional office