Republicans Push To Repeal FACE Act Used To Target Pro-Life Activists

Rep. Chip Roy of Texas, backed by 25 Republican lawmakers, has introduced legislation to repeal the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act. The move aims to prevent the Biden administration’s alleged targeting of pro-life activists under federal law.

The FACE Act, passed in 1994, was increasingly enforced following the Supreme Court’s 2022 decision in Dobbs v. Jackson. Roy pointed out that from 1994 to 2024, 97% of FACE Act prosecutions were against pro-life activists, despite rising attacks on pro-life pregnancy centers and churches that went largely unpunished.

According to Roy, the Biden administration used the law as a political weapon to silence pro-life advocates. He criticized the Department of Justice for disproportionately prosecuting those who peacefully protested outside abortion clinics while largely ignoring violent acts against pro-life facilities.

Republicans argue that with their control of Congress and the White House, it is time to act. Roy stated that the GOP must take advantage of their majority to eliminate laws used to target pro-life supporters unfairly.

Sen. Mike Lee of Utah is expected to introduce a companion bill in the Senate, further advancing the repeal effort. Pro-life organizations, including Students for Life Action and the Thomas More Society, have endorsed the repeal, calling the law unconstitutional and urging swift congressional action.

Roy’s bill is cosponsored by several high-profile Republicans, including Reps. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, Andy Biggs of Arizona and Paul Gosar of Arizona. Supporters argue that the repeal is necessary to prevent further abuses of power by future administrations.