I am concerned about the "Stupak amendment" in the health care bill that was passed by the House of Representatives, and now similar language is being considered by the Senate. This amendment would make it nearly impossible for many women to exercise their right to have an abortion, even if they use their own money to buy health insurance. Federal funds already cannot be used to cover an abortion. The Roe v. Wade decision by the Supreme Court settled the matter about women's freedom to choose, but the Stupak amendment virtually guarantees that insurance companies won't include abortions in their health plans.

This is another attempt to hijack our health care reform bill. If the anti-choice people get their way, they could destroy what progress has been made so far on women's freedoms. We should urge our elected representatives not to pass this amendment that takes away the freedom of a large portion of our citizenry.

Robert Van Velkinburgh

Syracuse