Hyde Amendment

The Hyde Amendment, passed in 1976, is a U.S. legislative provision that prohibits federal funding for most abortions. It was enacted by Congress following the Supreme Court's decision in Roe v. Wade.1

The amendment, named after its sponsor Henry Hyde, has been renewed annually with modifications and prevents programs like Medicaid from covering abortion services. This restriction has been extended to other federal health programs, such as those established by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, to ensure federal funds are not used for abortions. The Hyde Amendment reflects ongoing efforts to restrict abortion access through federal policy.12