The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has initiated a comprehensive review of its programs and funding allocations to ensure adherence to the Hyde Amendment, which prohibits the use of federal funds for non-medically necessary abortions. Acting HHS Secretary, Dr. Dorothy Fink, announced the review, emphasizing the department's commitment to upholding laws protecting conscience and religious freedom.

This internal investigation, overseen by the HHS Office of Civil Rights, will utilize guidance from the Office of Management and Budget to determine whether existing regulations and practices align with federal guidelines. Dr. Fink underscored the department's focus on strengthening the enforcement of these laws.

This move aligns with President Trump's recent executive order directing all federal agencies to enforce Hyde Amendment provisions. The order also reversed previous actions by the Biden administration that had eased abortion restrictions following the Supreme Court's overturning of Roe v. Wade. A White House statement highlighted Congress's long-standing policy against taxpayer-funded abortions and criticized the previous administration for allegedly embedding such funding in various government programs.

Interestingly, the HHS announcement coincided with an administration-wide communications freeze. While essential agency operations continue, public announcements are generally restricted. Fox News Digital's inquiries to HHS regarding this apparent exception went unanswered.

In addition to the Hyde Amendment review, Dr. Fink's statement also praised the administration's decision to rejoin the Geneva Consensus Declaration, an international agreement emphasizing women's health, the protection of life at all stages, and the importance of the family unit. The HHS Office of Global Affairs will support U.S. involvement in this coalition.