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The San Antonio City Council's decision, dated August 4, 2023, to establish a $500,000 fund to facilitate out-of-state abortions is nothing short of an egregious misuse of taxpayer money. Administered by Metro Health, this fund would irresponsibly funnel grants to nonprofit organizations solely focused on abortion access and reproductive health.
This proposal blatantly disregards the values and beliefs of a substantial portion of Bexar County residents who vehemently oppose abortion. It is an affront to their convictions and a disgraceful allocation of their hard-earned tax dollars. Moreover, it reflects a stunning disconnect between the city council and its constituents.
Incredibly, many private organizations are already dedicated to supporting pregnant women, regardless of their choice. These organizations offer comprehensive services, including financial aid, counseling, and emotional support. There is simply no need for taxpayer money to be squandered on duplicative efforts.
Rather than pursuing this divisive and deeply unpopular initiative, the city council should be laser-focused on investing taxpayer resources where they genuinely matter to the majority of Bexar County residents: public safety, critical infrastructure improvements, and education. These are the issues that demand our attention and funding.
Furthermore, the city council's proposal raises grave constitutional concerns:
First Amendment Rights Under Siege: The city council's move forces taxpayers to contribute to activities they find morally objectionable, trampling upon their First Amendment rights. It is an indefensible infringement on their freedom of conscience and belief.
Breach of Separation of Powers: This proposal is not only wasteful but also a shocking breach of the separation of powers. The city council lacks the authority to legislate on abortion, a matter clearly reserved for the state legislature. Their overreach is both arrogant and unconstitutional.
Inevitable Legal Battles: Given the precedent set by the Texas Supreme Court, which prohibits the use of taxpayer money for abortions at the state level, it is not a question of if but when the San Antonio City Council's reckless proposal will face legal challenges. A similar ruling is almost certain.
In no uncertain terms, we strongly urge that the city council rescind this ill-conceived proposal immediately and redirect taxpayer funds toward initiatives that genuinely reflect the values and priorities of the overwhelming majority of Bexar County residents. Anything less is a dereliction of their duty to represent the will of the people.
Written by:
Zach Rathbun
Republican Party of Bexar County, Secretary Pro Tem and
Charlie Hamberg, Communications Chair
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