On Monday, SB 300, The Heartbeat Protection Act, sponsored by Senator Erin Grall (R Vero Beach), passed the full Senate with a vote of 26 to 13. It is regrettable that two Republicans voted with the Democrats. The two senators who voted with the Democrats were Corey Simon of Northwest Florida and Alexis Calatayud (R Miami).
Senator Grall asserted that the Heartbeat Protection Act would establish Florida as a model for those who recognize the sanctity of life and the necessity of its protection. This bill presents an unparalleled opportunity to safeguard the lives of the unborn and to support the courageous women who choose life for their children. This bill ensures that our laws provide the strongest protections for innocent life.
This bill is intended to align Florida with the surrounding states of Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Georgia, as stated by Lynda Bell, President of Florida Right to Life. Furthermore, she asserted that the legislation would help to prevent what has been termed “abortion tourism,” whereby women and girls travel to Florida to obtain an abortion in order to circumvent the laws of their home states. Furthermore, the bill provides much-needed support for pregnant women. This is a significant and positive development.
The bill prohibits abortions after six weeks of pregnancy, with exceptions. It is important to note that all abortions, including chemical abortions, must be performed in person and prescribed or performed by a medical or osteopathic physician.
Senator Passidomo (R Naples), the Senate president, made the following statement: The Heartbeat Protection Act is designed to protect the most vulnerable, particularly the unborn, and to reinforce state initiatives aimed at fostering adoption and supporting families. It provides significant resources to benefit infants, young children, and parents, with the intention of encouraging more Floridians in challenging and unplanned circumstances to choose life for their babies.
Florida Right to Life extends its gratitude to both Senators and the bill sponsors for their exemplary leadership in advancing this life-saving legislation.
Daniel Miller is responsible for nearly all of National Right to Life News' political writing.
With the election of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency, Daniel Miller developed a deep obsession with U.S. politics that has never let go of the political scientist. Whether it's the election of Joe Biden, the midterm elections in Congress, the abortion rights debate in the Supreme Court or the mudslinging in the primaries - Daniel Miller is happy to stay up late for you.
Daniel was born and raised in New York. After living in China, working for a news agency and another stint at a major news network, he now lives in Arizona with his two daughters.
