West Virginia Senators passed two pro-life bills this week in an attempt to further strengthen pro-life protections in the state. Currently, nearly all preborn children in the state are protected from abortion, though there are exceptions if the abortion is considered necessary to protect the life of the mother, if the pregnancy is no longer viable, or in cases of rape.
Senate Bill 352, the Unborn Child Protection Act, would ensure that women who are eligible for abortion under one of these exceptions would still have informed consent as to what the procedure actually entails. Under the bill, doctors would be required to ensure the woman is aware of things like associated medical risks, the child’s probable gestational age, and what perinatal hospital services are available to her. The woman would also be offered the chance to see an ultrasound.
“This is a decision. We’re affecting life and death,” said Sen. Patricia Rucker, the bill’s sponsor. “It is a decision that will impact a woman’s life after the decision is made —whatever decision is made. So I think it is only the right thing to do that she has all the information available.”
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In the face of opposition, Rucker also emphasized that the bill has no impact on abortions currently allowed under state law.
“This does not expand, at all, our current law,” she said. “It doesn’t increase any penalties and doesn’t in any way change what we currently prohibit. All this does — and I cannot imagine anyone who would oppose — is make sure that the woman has all the information she should have in making a decision.”
Rucker has also sponsored Senate Bill 620, which expands the way funds can be used under the state’s Mothers and Babies Pregnancy Support Program. Initiated last year by Governor Jim Justice, the program offers grants to “life-affirming social service organizations” like pregnancy resource centers, maternity homes, and adoption agencies. Under the program, $1 million will be distributed to pro-life organizations throughout the state.
Both bills now head to the House for consideration.
