Floor Situation

H.Con.Res. 109 is being considered under suspension of the rules, requiring a two-thirds vote for passage. The legislation was introduced by Rep. Gerald E. Connolly (D-VA) on April 27, 2009.

Bill Summary

H.Con.Res. 109 would resolve that Congress:

• "Remembers the lives of the women and men who have lost their fight with breast cancer and expresses support and admiration for those who have survived;
• "Congratulates those survivors, family, friends, and other community members who participate in the Global Race for the Cure in order to raise money for research and education so that many more may survive and encourages Americans to walk this year and to support their family and friends who participate; and
• "Honors the Susan G. Komen Global Race for the Cure for its impact on the National Capital Area, the Nation, and the world."

Background

According to the resolution's findings, breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women worldwide, with more than 1,300,000 diagnosed each year.  Publicly and privately funded research has resulted in treatment that has raised the 5-year survival rate for women with localized breast cancer from 80 percent in the 1950s to 98 percent in 2008.

According to lifeissues.org, numerous Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation Affiliates have given grants to Planned Parenthood and various family planning/abortion clinics.  In addition, Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation website lists abortion first under "factors not related to breast cancer." Consequently, the Foundation gives women only part of the scientific research on breast cancer, and ignores studies that have yielded evidence linking abortion to breast cancer.  Some Members may be concerned about Congress publicly honoring an organization which, through its contributions to Planned Parenthood clinics, helps free up monies at abortion providers for abortion procedures.