Taxpayer dollars are being used to fund a campaign against pro-life pregnancy centers in the state of Massachusetts.
The state launched a “first-in-the-nation public education campaign” that focuses on the “dangers and potential harm of anti-abortion centers, also called ‘crisis pregnancy centers,'” a press release states.
The initiative was funded through a $1 million investment in the state’s FY2023 budget.
Campaign ads depict the “misinformation” produced by the pregnancy centers.”
One ad urges viewers to “avoid anti-abortion centers.”
“They may look like medical clinics, but can put your health at risk,” the ad says. “They mislead you about your options if you’re pregnant. They don’t offer abortion care.”
The ad directs viewers to a government website that again urges residents to “avoid anti-abortion centers.”
Governor Maura Healey (D) said that the state is “committed to protecting and expanding access to safe and legal abortion.”
“That includes protecting patients from the deceptive and dangerous tactics that anti-abortion centers often use to stop people from accessing comprehensive reproductive services,” she continued. “This campaign is an important way to provide accurate information so residents can make informed decisions about reproductive care that are right for them.”
Commissioner of the Department of Health, Robbie Goldstein, MD, PhD, claimed that pregnancy centers are “masquerading” as “comprehensive medical providers and pose a significant risk to the health and well-being of those seeking help, support, and options.”
The campaign’s press release notes that pregnancy centers outnumber abortion clinics by “more than two to one.”
The announcement goes on to accuse pro-life centers of using “deceptive practices to attract patients.” These centers “may be located near reproductive health clinics,” “create websites that appear in online searches for abortion clinics,” and “advertise online and in print media in ways that aim to appeal to those who are considering abortion,” the press release says.
According to the Pregnancy Care Alliance of Massachusetts, 4,084 women were assisted by pro-life centers across the state in 2023. More than 1,700 pregnancy tests were distributed, and 1,371 ultrasounds were had.
Over half a million dollars in food, diapers, baby clothing, and supplies were distributed to women free of charge by the pregnancy centers during that same year.
