On Monday, May 8, Senator Ben Hansen introduced Amendment 1658, an effort to protect children in the womb at 12 weeks.
Two weeks ago, we were heartbroken when the Nebraska Heartbeat Act came against a disappointing and unexpected vote. This bill would have protected all babies with a beating heart.
The new Amendment (1658) will be attached to LB574, the “Let Them Grow Act.” While we are extremely disappointed the Nebraska Heartbeat Act did not advance because of one “present, not voting”, a 12-week protection would still save many Nebraska preborn children. Debate is expected sometime this week.
We know Nebraska is a pro-life state and that the majority of Nebraskans believe all preborn babies have the right to life. In a poll earlier this year, Nebraska voters overwhelmingly supported a Heartbeat Bill. We will continue to advocate for the voiceless until all preborn babies are safe in our great state.
However, with this legislative session quickly coming to a close, no other agreement could be reached. Senators have looked toward LB 574 as a feasible path to expand protections for preborn babies in an effort to protect at least some of Nebraska’s preborn.
Nebraska Right to Life will continue our efforts, as we have for more than 50 years, to protect every vulnerable life in our state. We will continue the fight to save all preborn babies so that our legislation reflects Nebraskans’ values.