Do we dare risk political correctness?

By State Representative Robert F. Hagan

Unlike many groups that deal with the problems associated with alcohol consumption, The Dr. Richard R. O’Toole Pediatric Fund is indeed unique.

Areas of concern to us, such as underage drinking and drunk driving, cross every section of society, and involve boys and girls, men and women.

But the perils of drinking while pregnant, in any amount or frequency, falls only to women.  This is not to say men don’t have an important role in helping pregnant women abstain, just that there is to date no empirical evidence that a man’s drinking has any negative effect on the development of the fetus.  As a legislator, I will admit that I found myself thinking long and hard before agreeing to serve the Board of Directors.

After all, our critics might suggest that any message we bring forward will have a marginalizing effect, and that we are crossing the line of “rights” and of “choices”.  Some might even argue that our pro-child message is also anti-woman.  But I don’t see it that way. 

There is new information available from scientific research.  Using every available resource, we must bring this information forward.  This process will not infringe on choices but will enable and empower women to make choices, and ultimately protect our unborn. 

In February 2005, the U.S. surgeon general issued the warning that alcohol consumption during pregnancy causes birth defects, and that no amount of alcohol during pregnancy can be considered safe.   I was surprised to discover so few people aware of this message, and that up to 15% of pregnant women continue to drink while pregnant.  We must work to reduce that number. 

Please consider a tax-deductible gift in support of the work of The Dr. Richard R. O’Toole Pediatric Fund.

Sincerely,

Rep. Robert F. Hagan

Representative Hagan has served the Ohio Legislature for two decades, and has championed many issues dealing with family and children.  He was recently honored by the Ohio Association of non profits for his tireless efforts.