Pro-Life Legislation Updates!
Living in the state of Illinois, it is easy to feel discouraged as there is a lack of pro-life legislation. We continue to watch the state of California, as attempts are made to expand the scope of abortion and restrict the influence of pro-life organizations. But in several other States, this is not the case. There is significant progress on the pro-life front to be recognized and celebrated.
Pro-Life Legislation Updates
Louisiana SB534 is a bill protecting a pregnant woman from coerced abortion and defining coerced abortion as a crime of violence. It was approved by both the Louisiana state Senate and House. This bill prohibits any form of physical coercion or threat of coercion, including withholding financial support from a minor. Violations could warrant fines up to $5,000 and imprisonment up to five years. In addition, Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards recently signed Senate Bill 181 into law, effectively banning abortions after 15 weeks. The law will only take effect if a similar law in Mississippi is upheld by a federal court. In March, Mississippi Governor Phil Bryant signed the abortion ban, House Bill 1510, into law. The next day a federal judge granted a temporary restraining order on behalf of Women’s Health Organization, the only abortion facility in Mississippi.
Iowa Passes Fetal Heartbeat Abortion Ban
In Iowa, Gov. Kim Reynolds signed a fetal heartbeat bill into law, effectively banning abortion after the point at which a heartbeat can be detected. In many cases, this could prevent abortion after about six weeks of gestation. The law is scheduled to go into effect on July 1, and represents the most significant restriction on abortion passed since Roe v. Wade made abortion legal in 1973. Planned Parenthood and the American Civil Liberties Union’s Iowa branch filed a suit against the state of Iowa in May. In early June, Polk County District Court Judge Michael Huppert said that he would grant a temporary injunction against the law, while the lawsuit challenging its constitutionality is settled. The injunction will prevent the law from being enforced during the process of litigation.
Caring Network Illinois Provides Practical Help & Saves Lives
While pro-life advocates work to advance the case for life, Caring Network Illinois focuses on providing compassionate and practical help to anyone impacted by an unplanned pregnancy. In spite of the legal status of abortion in Illinois and how it may change over time, Caring Network is committed to providing this critical support. Many women who seek support at Caring Network have pressing fears and require resources to meet vital needs. Caring Network Illinois partners with hundreds of local organizations, and can provide or refer for assistance with housing, food, baby supplies, and more. Get involved with us!
