GOP Lawmakers Work To Dismantle FACE Act Targeting Pro-Life Activists

Rep. Chip Roy of Texas, supported by 25 fellow Republicans, has introduced a bill to repeal the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act, which they argue has been unjustly used against pro-life activists. The legislation aims to prevent further prosecutions they say are politically motivated.

The FACE Act, which became law in 1994, was intended to protect access to abortion facilities. However, Roy pointed to Justice Department data showing that nearly all prosecutions under the act — 97% — were brought against pro-life demonstrators. He argued that the Biden administration focused on pro-lifers while failing to prosecute crimes against pro-life institutions.

Roy emphasized that now is the time to repeal the act, with Republicans controlling both chambers of Congress and the White House. He said eliminating the law would prevent future administrations from targeting individuals for their beliefs.

Sen. Mike Lee of Utah is expected to introduce a matching bill in the Senate. Lee has long been a critic of the FACE Act, arguing it exceeds congressional authority and unfairly limits free speech. He has pushed for its repeal as part of a broader effort to protect pro-life advocacy.

Several pro-life organizations, including CatholicVote and Concerned Women for America, have endorsed the repeal, arguing that the law has been selectively enforced and should be abolished. They have urged Congress to act quickly to prevent further targeting of pro-life Americans.

In addition to legislative efforts, conservative leaders have called on President Donald Trump to issue pardons for those convicted under the FACE Act during the Biden administration, citing what they call unjust and politically driven prosecutions.