Statement from Valerie Huber, NAEA's Executive Director, on the decision of Congress to reauthorize Title V Funding for Abstinence Education for 12 months, as part the Medicare bill overturned by Congress July 15, 2008
Washington, DC (July 15, 2008) — "The NAEA applauds Congress for its continued investment in the health of America's youth. Though the funding authorized for abstinence-centered education remains far less than the taxpayer money spent on contraceptive-based education programs, both Democrats and Republicans recognize that the message of abstinence is what parents across the United States want their children to hear.
States depend on the dollars provided through Title V programs to ensure students learn medically accurate, age-appropriate information about sexual health. A growing body of research proves that abstinence-centered education is effective at delaying teen sex, and reversing risky behavior in teens that are already sexually active.
Unfortunately, governors have been the target of a misinformation campaign regarding these abstinence funds and too many have rejected the best health message of abstinence. Today’s congressional vote in support of abstinence education gives governors an opportunity to rethink their position and restore funding to the benefit of youth in their states by accepting these federal funds.”
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About NAEA:
NAEA serves and supports abstinence educators across the United States who work with more than 1.5 million students.
For more information:
http://www.abstinenceassociation.org
To schedule an interview with NAEA Executive Director Valerie Huber, please contact Patra Stephan at 202-248-5420 or 202-246-3822.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Patra Stephan, Communications Director,
202.248.5420/
202-246-3822