Ask Gov. Strickland to reject abstinence-only funding

Take action by Wednesday, July 4, 2007

IMPORTANT

Please Take Action Today!

“Quite frankly, I don't believe abstinence-only education programs work in the long run," Strickland said. "There is some evidence that they may delay the onset of sexual activity, but over the long term there's not data there that show they prevent, in a statistical sense, sexual activity outside of marriage."

“I believe in a comprehensive approach," Strickland said. "I think, obviously, abstinence should be a part of any education curriculum, but I think young people need to be educated in ways that can protect their health and their safety."

“Abstinence-only sex ed may get cut, but not without a fight”

Dayton Daily News

March 21, 2007

From this sound, pragmatic perspective, Gov. Ted Strickland proposed a new state budget that eliminated funding for unproven and unrealistic abstinence-only-until-marriage programs in Ohio.

Unfortunately, the state legislature has restored this funding – $500,000 in each of the next two years.

However, we can still win this battle!

The budget bill will be sent back to the Governor any day for his final signature. However, he has the ability to veto abstinence-only funding. If he doesn't, the money stays in the budget, and Ohio continues to carry out ineffective, exclusionary programs.

We need to let Gov. Strickland know TODAY that we applaud his position, and support his continuing leadership -- which he can do by vetoing abstinence-only-until-marriage funding in the state budget.

If he doesn't hear from us TODAY he may assume it doesn't matter.

It's incredibly easy.

1) Visit http://apps.das.ohio.gov/govpublic/contact.aspx

2) Provide your contact information

3) Type or paste a message in the “comments” box urging the Governor to veto abstinence-only-until-marriage funding. First, thank the Governor for his leadership in rejecting the funds in his initial budget proposal. Then, using any/all of the following points, encourage him to continue to show strong leadership by vetoing the abstinence-only funding:

· Almost every major editorial board in the state of Ohio supports the Governor’s decision to reject abstinence-only funding.

· A recent study commissioned by the U.S. Congress found no difference in outcomes between students who participated in abstinence-only classes and those who have no instruction.

· A poll conducted by Quinnipiac University showed that 53% of Ohioans with children in public schools support the Governor’s position with only 35% in opposition.

· A study conducted at Case Western Reserve University found that many of Ohio’s abstinence-only-until-marriage programs actually contain false information about contraceptives, misrepresent religious convictions as scientific fact, and do not portray the risks related to sexual activity in a scientifically accurate manner

4) Request a response

5) Press “Submit”

It takes two minutes -- honest. And it's incredibly important!

Thanks so much for your help!

Gary Dougherty

Executive Director

Planned Parenthood Affiliates of Ohio