We have just received news that President Bush is trying to sell-out women's health in the most unbelievable way. Here's how:

The Bush administration is about to release a rule that will make it possible for federal funding that is specifically designed to prevent unintended pregnancy and promote reproductive health to now be used for anything but that.

If it happens, it will be a massive betrayal of women and families, and we must stop it. Patrick, we need you to speak out. Please let President Bush know that this change is very wrong.

A little background on this outrageous situation...

We've known for some time that anti-choice extremists have wanted President Bush to deliver them some sort of "gift" before he leaves office. This rule change is just that gift. And here's what one of the most egregious results could be:

Right now, anti-choice groups run so-called "crisis pregnancy centers" in communities all around the country — often a block or two away from Planned Parenthood affiliate health centers. These facilities look like health centers, but in reality are run by anti-choice zealots who deliver only the reproductive health care options that fit their agenda. No birth control, no abortion — and no choice for women and families who need it.

If this rule takes effect, they're likely to receive a massive influx of our tax dollars to expand their deceptive operations and to attract hundreds of thousands of women who think they'll be getting medical care but instead will receive a large dose of anti-choice ideology.

I believe that tricking women when they are most vulnerable is wrong — and the federal government shouldn't pay people to do it.

It gets worse. The rule would also require entities that receive family planning funding, like Planned Parenthood, to certify that we will not refuse to hire nurses and other providers who object to abortion and even certain types of birth control. Between deceptive "crisis pregnancy centers" delivering woefully incomplete care and legitimate health centers with extremely limited funding, hundreds of thousands of women are at enormous risk.

We have a chance to stop it. So, beginning right now and with your help, we are:

• launching a massive public outcry against the president's rule
• raising as much money as we possibly can
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• pponline@ppfa.org

One more thing — Planned Parenthood Federation of America has been standing up for and serving women, men, and families in this country for more than 90 years. The next few days and weeks will be an immense challenge, but know this: We are here for this fight. We need you here with us.

Thank you in advance. More soon.

Sincerely,

Cecile Richards, President

Planned Parenthood Federation of America