The Massachusetts State Senate begins debating their version of the Fiscal Year 2010 State Budget today.  It is important that programs that provide sexual health-related information and services be protected, even in this daunting fiscal climate.  We need you to contact your state senator today to express your support for Amendment #600 which would increase the proposed state funding for comprehensive family planning programs.

Please contact your state senator today to tell them that sexual health matters, and ask them to support this important amendment!

Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,

I am writing to ask you to support an important budget amendment that impacts sexual and reproductive health in Massachusetts. Adequately funding comprehensive family planning programs would be a cost-effective investment in improving public health in the Commonwealth, even in today's economy.

Family Planning Programs (Amendment 600, Lead Sponsor: Senator Flanagan) This amendment would increase the funding for this line item to $5 million, which would restore the funding back to where it was after Governor Patrick made emergency cuts this year, and the amendment would also ensure that all of the money would be spent on these programs.

Comprehensive family planning programs include HIV counseling and testing services, medical and gynecological examinations, contraception, testing and treatment for sexually transmitted diseases, screenings and other follow-ups for breast and cervical cancer, and a number of other health screenings, among numerous other services. These programs provide vital outreach and essential health care to low-income uninsured women, men, and adolescents.

Sexual health matters, and programs that improve sexual health deserve protection. Thank you for your consideration of this request. As your constituent, I look forward to receiving your response.

Sincerely,

Campaign Launched:
May 18, 2009