Washington, D.C. – In a move to enforce the Hyde Amendment, President Donald Trump signed an executive order today aimed at eliminating federal funding for elective abortions. The executive order revokes two orders from the previous administration, marking a significant shift in U.S. abortion policy.
The Hyde Amendment, which has been enacted annually by Congress for nearly 50 years, prohibits the use of federal taxpayer dollars for elective abortions. President Trump’s order aims to reinstate this policy and halt what he described as the previous administration’s efforts to fund abortion services through federal programs.
“I believe American taxpayers should not be forced to fund elective abortions,” President Trump said in a statement. “This policy reflects the will of the American people and restores long-standing principles.”
The executive order also revokes Executive Orders 14076 and 14079, issued by the Biden administration in 2022, which expanded access to abortion services following the Supreme Court’s 2022 decision to overturn Roe v. Wade.
Trump’s decision comes on the same day as the annual March for Life, a rally organized by anti-abortion advocates to commemorate the 52nd anniversary of the Roe v. Wade ruling, which had legalized abortion nationwide before its reversal. Speaking at the rally via video message, Trump reiterated his commitment to protecting the sanctity of life. Vice President JD Vance also addressed the crowd in person.
As part of his broader agenda, Trump also issued pardons to about two dozen individuals convicted of blocking access to abortion clinics.
The Biden administration had taken significant steps to expand abortion access after the Roe ruling was overturned, with abortion rights becoming a central issue in the 2024 election campaign. Democrats have warned that further restrictions could be imposed under Trump’s leadership, particularly as his executive order signals an intent to reinstate more restrictive policies.
In his order, Trump directed the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to issue guidance to federal agencies on how to implement the changes. The order also includes provisions to ensure its implementation in compliance with existing law.
This executive action marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing national debate over abortion rights, with both sides preparing for what could be a contentious battle in the lead-up to the 2024 presidential election.
