Just last week, Secretary Leavitt wrote on the HHS website that he was still considering whether to issue new regulations, and expressed concern about an impact on birth control. That means our voices are being heard; but we have to keep working!
Hillary and Patty Murray have written Secretary Leavitt again, warning him of their continued concern: "Your publicly stated explanation did not give us confidence the Department of Health and Human Services [HHS] is drafting a rule that would ensure these services."
As long as these regulations are still under consideration, access to birth control is in danger. If you haven't signed yet, join us now in sending a clear message. Let the Bush administration know you stand with Hillary Clinton as she fights for us: http://www.hillpac.com/action/hhspetition/
COMING UP: THE DEMOCRATIC CONVENTION
Hillary will speak to the Democratic National Convention on Tuesday, August 26, 2008 -- Women's Equality Day. The celebration marks the day when the women's suffrage amendment was included in the United States Constitution.
Often on the campaign trail, Hillary met women who told her they were born before women had the right to vote - and how much it meant to them to vote for a woman for President. She'll not only be speaking for them, but for all of us on this historic night.
Stay tuned for more information on the Democratic Convention and how you can see Hillary and join her as she goes to Denver.
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CALL FOR ACTION ON SEXUAL ASSAULTS IN THE MILITARY
Last week Hillary called for an investigation into a critical report of the Pentagon's handling of sexual assault against service members. In a letter to Sen. Carl Levin (MI), Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Hillary asked for a public hearing:
"I am deeply concerned by the Pentagon's inadequate response to sexual assaults on our troops and the administration's unwillingness to answer questions about these important issues." she wrote. "Service members who brave so many dangers while defending our nation deserve better."
HILLARY CONTINUES WORKING FOR WOMEN AND FAMILIES: A REPORT FROM THE SENATE
Before the Senate left for recess, Hillary won support for important legislative provisions in education and women's health.
The Higher Education Opportunity Education Act, just passed by Congress, includes important sections of her Student Borrowers Bill of Rights, as well as a new program to place 10,000 new teachers in disadvantaged communities over the next three years.
"For too many students, the skyrocketing cost of attending college has become a barrier to following their dreams." Hillary said. "I am proud that both chambers today have taken the critical step...that will ensure more low and middle income students have the opportunity to obtain a college degrees."
The Global Leadership Against HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria Reauthorization Act includes a measure Hillary authored to address the include programs to address the needs of women and girls in the five year strategy to combat global AIDS. It also helps target the special vulnerability of women and girls to HIV in prevention, care and treatment programs.
WORTH QUOTING
"It is unconscionable that this administration would even consider putting women's health and prevention in jeopardy."
Hillary Clinton August 9, 2008
And folks, in case you were wondering if what we're doing is giving Hillary influence and strength in dealing with the DNC and BHO, take a look at what was included in our party's platform...
This doesn't happen on its own and if you think it was Dean's or BHO's idea to include this language, think again.
Now use that link to contact delegates dot com to ask the delegates in your state to vote for Hillary in Denver.
While you're at it - ask them to sign off on Michele's petition if they haven't already done so.
