Editor’s note. The following wonderful news was sent out by Benjamin Clapper, executive director of Louisiana Right to Life

Greetings!

Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal signing "Signs of Hope Act"

Yesterday evening, Governor Bobby Jindal signed the “Signs of Hope Act” into law!  The ceremony was held at First Baptist Church in West Monroe, the home of the bill’s author, Rep. Frank Hoffman.  I was fortunate enough to be present and speak alongside the Governor about the importance of this legislation.

A number of memorable things were said at the event, but Gov. Jindal coined the headline of the Monroe News-Star by saying, “Creating a culture of life is more than just words.”  Jindal also reminded the crowd that though the Signs of Hope Act is an important step forward, the work of life is not complete.  We could not agree more!  While we are delighted at the passage of this legislation, we will not tire until liberty and justice is given to all, both born and unborn.

According to Louisiana Right to Life the new law (H.B. 636 ) addresses the truth that many women feel pressured into having an abortion in two ways:

(1)     Requires a “Forced Abortion Prevention Sign” to be conspicuously posted in abortion clinics informing women that they can’t be forced to abort against their will; that the father is liable for support; that adoptive parents may pay costs of prenatal care and childbirth; that there are many public and private resources to help during and  after pregnancy as listed on a DHH website featured on the sign posted in the clinic.

(2)     Creates a DHH website and mobile/smartphone platform to deliver info about free ultrasound, pregnancy resources, abortion health risks, and the development of the unborn child. In addition to being posted on the sign, the web address must be given by phone or email at the initial contact seeking an appointment. This legislation enhances Louisiana’s current Woman’s Right to Know law.