President Donald Trump issued an executive order on January 24 reaffirming the Hyde Amendment, a policy that prohibits the use of federal funds for elective abortions. The order also revokes two abortion-related executive orders issued by the previous administration in 2022, marking a significant policy shift.
The Hyde Amendment, which has been passed annually by Congress for nearly 50 years, reflects bipartisan consensus that taxpayer dollars should not be used to fund elective abortion. Trump’s executive order directs the Office of Management and Budget to issue guidance ensuring compliance across federal agencies, signaling a return to stricter enforcement of the policy.
“For decades, the Hyde Amendment has upheld a commonsense standard that respects the views of American taxpayers,” Trump stated. “This executive order restores the longstanding consensus that was disregarded by the previous administration.”
The order specifically revokes Executive Order 14076, which expanded access to reproductive health care, and Executive Order 14079, which provided federal resources for abortion services in certain cases. Critics of those orders argued they circumvented the Hyde Amendment’s provisions, compelling taxpayers to fund practices they may morally oppose.
The executive order also includes provisions clarifying that it does not create new legal rights or alter existing authorities granted to federal agencies, ensuring its implementation remains consistent with existing law.
Supporters of the Hyde Amendment praised Trump’s action, calling it a necessary step to protect taxpayer dollars. Reproductive health advocates, however, criticized the move, saying it restricts access to essential care for vulnerable populations.
The order comes as debates over abortion funding continue to divide policymakers and the public. Its implementation will likely spark further debate as federal agencies adjust their policies to align with the directive.
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