Greetings from Washington, D.C.! |
We are in our Nation’s Capital this week for meetings on Capitol Hill, the June meeting of the National Right to Life Board of Directors, and the 55th National Right to Life Conference taking place Friday and Saturday in Arlington, Virginia.
This year’s conference theme is “We the People: Standing for Life.” The theme seems especially fitting as our Nation continues the celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary.
While National Right to Life’s headquarters is located in Arlington and many of our meetings are held here throughout the year, gathering during this historic season offers a special opportunity to reflect on the principles upon which our country was founded and the responsibility each generation has to protect and defend human dignity.
Just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., the monuments and memorials remind us of the sacrifices made by generations of Americans who pledged their lives, fortunes, and sacred honor in the cause of liberty. As pro-life advocates, we continue the important work of advancing a culture that respects and protects every human life. |
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CAPITOL HILL UPDATE
While in Washington, D.C., for the annual National Right to Life Board Meeting, I had the opportunity to spend time on Capitol Hill during a pivotal moment for the ProLife movement. On Tuesday, Planned Parenthood activists and lobbyists had descended on Capitol Hill in force, urging Congress to restore hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars to the nation’s largest abortion provider. |
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Wednesday, our Nation Right to Life Board members had a wonderful tour of the Capitol and then we were off to the Congressional Baseball Game, a long-standing bipartisan tradition that brings Members of Congress together for a charitable cause.
Wednesday evening, as I returned to my hotel room and turned on the television, commercial after commercial reminded me just how central abortion has become in America’s political debate. Whether in campaign advertisements, policy discussions, or legislative battles, abortion remains front and center. As I watched the ads, I was struck by how many candidates and organizations continue to make abortion a central issue in campaigns across our Nation.
The Planned Parenthood and the Abortion Industry are loud and bold… and not going away
But, neither are we and we aren’t just here for fun and games… While Wednesday evening provided an opportunity for fellowship and bipartisan goodwill, we were reminded that the work before us is far more important than any game.
We are here because every human life has value, every mother deserves authentic support, and every taxpayer deserves protection from being forced to subsidize abortion.
But this debate is about far more than politics. Lives are at stake. Women’s health is at stake. The conscience rights of American taxpayers are at stake.
Time Is Running Out The one-year moratorium on taxpayer funding for abortion providers, enacted as part of the Big Beautiful Bill, legislation signed on July 4, 2025, is set to expire on our Nation’s 250th Anniversary—July 4, 2026.
If Planned Parenthood wishes to continue performing abortions, it should do so without forcing taxpayers to subsidize its operations. Let them fund themselves.
This should have never been the norm…The American people should never have been compelled to fund an organization that performs hundreds of thousands of abortions each year while receiving substantial taxpayer support.
In a recent letter to Congress, pro-life leaders warned: “With the moratorium on funding abortion providers like Planned Parenthood set to expire on our great Nation’s 250th Anniversary, we call upon Congress to permanently end taxpayer funding of abortion providers before July 4.”
Meetings on the Hill Thursday was filled with National Right to Life Board meetings and policy discussions. But, just before a mid-morning break, I received a text message from Congressman Andy Barr’s office inviting me to stop by.
Along with Madison, National Right to Life’s Political Liaison in Washington, D.C., I quickly made my way to both Congressman Andy Barr’s and Congressman Brett Guthrie’s offices.
During our meetings with congressional staff, we discussed one of the most important prolife issues currently before Congress—the Reconciliation Act 3 – which is immediately needed to again address the funding of Planned Parenthood, as the protections and defunding signed into law July 4th, 2025 will expire unless Congress acts.
Looking Aheard…The Choice Before Congress Is Clear Either make these protections permanent or allow federal funding to once again flow to Planned Parenthood! Congress must act before July 4 to ensure that American taxpayers are not forced to subsidize the nation’s largest abortion provider. Restoring taxpayer funding to Planned Parenthood would be a tragic step backward for women, families, taxpayers, and the unborn.
As our Nation prepares to celebrate 250 years of freedom and self-government, Congress must act decisively to ensure that taxpayer dollars are never used to subsidize an industry built upon the destruction of innocent human life. Looking Ahead July 4 is approaching, and Congress faces a defining decision.
The clock is ticking. Congress must act. |
We emphasized a simple but urgent message: Don’t let Planned Parenthood celebrate this Fourth of July. |
Addia with Elizabeth and Madison during a stop at Congressman Andy Barr’s office while attending National Right to Life Board meetings in Washington, D.C. Of course, one of the highlights of the day was catching up with two outstanding young women who serve as Kentucky Right to Life liaisons and are spending their summer as congressional interns with our Kentucky Members of Congress. |
We are incredibly proud of Lily , who is interning with Congressman Brett Guthrie, and Elizabeth, who is serving with Congressman Andy Barr. It was a joy to see these talented young women representing Kentucky with professionalism, enthusiasm, and a commitment to public service. |
Addia with Madison and Lily Sumner during a visit to Congressman Brett Guthrie’s office on Capitol Hill. |
One of the greatest blessings of programs like KY RTL NextPulse – Keep the Beat is watching young leaders discover their voice and their calling.
Seeing Lily and Elizabeth serve on Capitol Hill and participate in the legislative process reminds us that the future of the ProLife movement is in capable hands.
As they return to Kentucky and continue their studies at the University of Louisville, I hope you will join me in congratulating them. They have represented Kentucky with distinction and gained valuable experience that will serve them well in the years ahead.
The future is bright when young men and women answer the call to serve, and when all of us remain engaged in defending Life, protecting conscience rights, and building a culture that values every human life.
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National Right to Life News June Edition |
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I am pleased to share the June issue of National Right to Life News, often referred to as the “Pro-Life Newspaper of Record.”
This month’s edition contains important updates, thoughtful commentary, legislative news, and inspiring stories from across our Nation. I encourage you to take a few moments to read it and share it with family, friends, and fellow advocates for life.
One of the highlights in this month’s National Right to Life publication is a tribute to a personal hero of mine, Dr. Mildred Jefferson. Many Kentuckians may not realize that Dr. Jefferson was one of the featured speakers at one of the very first Louisville Right to Life banquets, invited by our Kentucky Right to Life Margie Montgomery. As the first African American woman to graduate from Harvard Medical School and a fearless defender of the unborn, she never wavered in her commitment to protecting human life. If you are not familiar with her remarkable story, I encourage you to enjoy this tribute published in the June National Right to Life News.
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Kentucky Right to Life Office Update |
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Please note that our Louisville office will be closed Thursday and Friday while Sharon and I attend meetings and conference events in Washington, D.C. We will return calls and emails as quickly as possible upon our return. |
Safe Haven Baby Box Update |
The Safe Haven Baby Box mission continues to move forward across Kentucky.
We have upcoming Safe Haven Baby Box Blessings planned in Middlesboro and the Lexington area. It appears I may need to clone myself to attend both events!
!! Next Week A Blessing in Middlesboro, KY !! Safe Haven Baby Box Blessing Wednesday, June 17th 1 PM Middlesboro Fire Department 215 N 20th Street, Middlesboro, KY
In addition: • Powell County has entered the installation phase. • Simpson County leaders continue to move forward following recent planning meetings. • We are grateful for the outstanding work of our local chapters, including Gateway Right to Life and Franklin Right to Life, whose leadership and commitment continue to make a difference in their communities.
Every new Safe Haven Baby Box represents another opportunity to save a life and offer hope to a parent facing a crisis. |
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“HOPE ACROSS KENTUCKY ONE BOX, ONE LIFE AT TIME” We are 65 Boxes and counting… from Barbourville, to NKY, Louisville to Richmond, Ankcorage to Mt Sterling, Berea to Etown andd Owensboro and Beyond. |
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NextPulse Student Ambassador Update |
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One of the special blessings of our trip to Washington this week was spending time with Lily Sumner, Kentucky Right to Life’s NextPulse Student Ambassador.
Many of you know Lily through our NextPulse: Keep the Beat initiative and her enthusiasm for building a culture of life among the next generation. This summer, Lily is serving as an intern in Washington, D.C., for Congressman Brett Guthrie.
It is always encouraging to see young leaders stepping forward to serve their communities, gain valuable experience, and participate in our nation’s civic process.
We are proud of Lily and grateful for the example she sets for other young Kentuckians.
Please join us in praying for Lily and all of our students and young adults who are dedicating their time and talents this summer in service to others. They are the future leaders of our Commonwealth and our Nation. |
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Washington Update More news from the THE HILL |
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Also On Thursday: First Lady Melania Trump’s Announced Historic “Fostering the Future Accounts” Initiative
Kentucky Right to Life applauds First Lady Melania Trump, the U.S. Department of the Treasury, and the Trump Administration for launching Fostering the Future Accounts, a groundbreaking initiative designed to help children and youth in foster care build financial assets and achieve greater independence as they enter adulthood.
Expands the Trump Accounts signed into law last year…expands the $1000 program avaible to U.S. Newborns this year to foster children.
A Kentucky Opportunity
The program will allow state child welfare agencies, who serve as the legal guardians to establish savings and investment accounts for children in foster care, providing opportunities for long-term financial stability and asset ownership.
“Every child deserves not only protection and care, but also hope, opportunity, and a pathway to independence,” said Addia Wuchner, Executive Director of Kentucky Right to Life. “As a ProLife organization, we believe every child has inherent dignity and immeasurable worth.
With Congressman James Comer reportedly considering a run for Governor in 2027, I would encourage him to make Fostering the Future Accounts a priority for Kentucky.
Likewise, I encourage our current Governor and members of the Kentucky General Assembly, to explore ways Kentucky can participate in this innovative effort. Kentucky has long demonstrated a commitment to children and families. Fostering the Future Accounts would provide foster youth with a foundation for independence, financial responsibility, education, and opportunity as they transition into adulthood.
As a former nurse, child advocate, legislator, and lifelong supporter of children and families, I know that stability, encouragement, and opportunity can change the trajectory of a child’s life. Too many young people age out of foster care without the resources many of us take for granted.
These accounts offer something every child deserves—a foundation for hope and a future filled with possibilities. The future of Kentucky depends on the success of our children. Supporting foster youth should never be a partisan issue—it should be a Kentucky issue.
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Last week in Washington, lawmakers introduced H.R. 8806, the Supporting Newborn Parents Act, legislation designed to provide financial support to working families following the birth of a child.
For many years, Kentucky Right to Life has supported policies that strengthen families, affirm the dignity of every human life, and help create a culture where both mothers and children can thrive.
The legislation would establish a newborn tax credit of up to $2,000 per child and allow eligible parents to receive the benefit shortly after the birth of their baby rather than waiting until annual tax filing season.
The weeks following childbirth often bring significant new expenses while household income may temporarily decrease as parents focus on caring for and bonding with their newborn child. This proposal seeks to provide practical assistance during that critical period.
Eligible families could use the credit to help cover expenses such as diapers, formula, clothing, medical costs, and other necessities associated with welcoming a new baby. As a movement, we have always worked to promote policies that value both mother and child. The Supporting Newborn Parents Act recognizes the importance of helping families during one of life’s most important transitions and represents a positive step toward building a more life-affirming culture. |
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FDA Announces Comprehensive Review of Abortion Drug Mifepristone |
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On June 5, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced that it is moving forward with a comprehensive review of the abortion drug mifepristone and its safety record.
According to published reports, the FDA will conduct a large-scale review of data involving hundreds of thousands of cases, examining adverse events, complications, and other outcomes associated with the use of the drug.
Kentucky Right to Life welcomes this announcement. |
As advocates for both women and their preborn children, we have long believed that every woman deserves complete and accurate information about the risks associated with chemical abortion. Any medication capable of ending the life of a developing child and affecting a woman’s health should be subject to ongoing review, transparency, and the highest standards of medical oversight.
For years, questions have been raised regarding the removal of safety protocols, the expansion of telehealth prescribing, and the distribution of abortion drugs through the mail. We believe these questions deserve careful examination and honest answers.
While Kentucky Right to Life remains unapologetically ProLife and committed to protecting every human life from conception to natural death, we are also deeply concerned about the health, safety, and well-being of women. Women deserve compassionate care, informed consent, appropriate medical follow-up, and the highest standard of healthcare. |
We welcome the FDA’s decision to undertake this review and encourage the agency to follow the evidence wherever it leads.Women deserve transparency. Families deserve truth. Public policy should be guided by sound science, medical integrity, and respect for human life.
We will continue to monitor this review and keep our members and supporters informed as additional information becomes available. |
As we continue our meetings in Washington and gather with pro-life leaders from across the Nation, we are reminded that our mission remains unchanged: to protect innocent human life, support women and families, and work toward a culture where every life is welcomed, valued, and protected.
Thank you for your continued prayers, advocacy, and faithful support of Kentucky Right to Life and our Educational Foundation. Together, we are making a difference across the Commonwealth and beyond.
Blessings,
Addia Kathryn Wuchner, RN, Bioethicist Executive Director Kentucky Right to Life Association & Educational Foundation |
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to Kentucky Communities, one box at a time… |
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Would you like to know more about the SPARK Fund and Safe Haven Baby Boxes Across Kentucky?
At the time several Kentucky Safe Haven Boxes are in the process to be ordered and one has just arrived and ready for install! |
Is your county working toward a Safe Haven Baby Box? |
Want information about upcoming Baby Box Blessings in your area? |
Interested in community projects, fundraising opportunities, or installation efforts? |
We would love to hear from you! |
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Thank you again for standing for life. |
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For information about the latest Kentucky counties and communities we are working with to install Safe Haven Baby Boxes, please call our office. 502-895-5959 |
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If you have any questions, please call our office at 502-895-5959. |
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