Dear Friend,

In a bold move, the Spitzer Administration has rejected federal Title V funds for abstinence-only programs.   Despite extensive research proving that abstinence-only sex education is not effective, the Bush Administration continues to pour billions into these failed programs.

In announcing this important state policy change, New York State Commissioner of Health Dr. Richard Daines said:

"Beginning October 1, 2007, New York is redirecting state funds to expand comprehensive sexuality education in schools and other community settings that will provide teens with medically accurate information and life skills to equip them with the necessary tools that they need to make the crucial healthy life choices needed for a healthy adulthood."

New York State now joins 11 other states that have already rejected these funds, but is the first in the nation to use these state dollars for comprehensive programs.  We are beginning to turn the tide right here in New York State.

Please take a moment to send the thank you letter below to Governor Spitzer.  It is the work of activists like you who have demanded real sex education that created this opportunity.

Subject: Thank you for supporting real sex education

Dear [decision maker name automatically inserted here],

Thank you for your leadership in rejecting federal Title V abstinence-only funding and redirecting state funds to comprehensive sex education programs. Research has shown that abstinence-only programs are not effective and are a poor investment of state funds.

I strongly support your efforts to invest this money in ways that can truly reduce unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.

I will continue to work with you to ensure that New York continues to support comprehensive sex education.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]