Legislation that would close abortion clinics in Louisiana if Roe v. Wade is overturned and ban the procedure is on its way to the governor’s desk for signature. Governor John Bel Edwards, a pro-life Democrat, is expected to sign the bill but would prefer the legislation had exceptions.
“I do believe that with respect to rape and incest there should be exceptions. I’ve said this a number of times most recently on last month’s radio program,” said Edwards who is referring to his monthly call-in radio show “Ask the Governor.”
Edwards says there’s a reality that must be addressed and that some pregnancies are a result of rape and incest.
“Should a 13-year-old be required by force of law to carry a baby to term that is there because of incest from her step-father…and I don’t believe the law should force that,” said Edwards.
If Roe v Wade is overturned as expected this summer, Louisiana along with other states with trigger laws would automatically stop abortions, but Senate Bill 342 does not have an exception for rape and incest. Edwards however feels differently and says he’s not alone.
‘I do believe that’s where the vast majority of Americans are and I think that’s where most Louisianians are as well,” said Edwards.
The legislation would also result in a ten-year prison sentence for doctors who perform abortions if abortion becomes illegal in Louisiana.
The White House has released a statement from Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre on the Louisiana Abortion Bill.
The Louisiana legislature has taken the latest step in a growing attack against the fundamental freedoms of Americans. Louisiana’s extreme bill will criminalize abortion with no exceptions for rape or incest and punish reproductive healthcare professionals with up to ten years in prison. The President is committed to protecting the constitutional rights of Americans afforded by Roe for nearly 50 years, and ensuring that women can make their own choices about their lives, bodies, and families. An overwhelming majority of the American people agree and reject these kinds of radical measures.
Comments