60 Percent of Americans Support Protections for Pain-Capable Babies
Editor’s note. The following is excerpted from a release from Ohio Right to Life, NRLC’s state affiliate.
Today, Ohio Right to Life’s premier legislation for 2015 was introduced in the Ohio House of Representatives and Senate. The Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act (H.B. 117 and S.B. 127) prohibits abortions in Ohio at the point at which pre-born babies can feel pain, which is at 20 weeks gestation (if not earlier). The legislation is sponsored by Representatives Kristina Roegner and Bob Cupp and Senators Peggy Lehner and Jay Hottinger. Thirty-three legislators signed on as co-sponsors of the legislation.
“The Hippocratic Oath says, First do no harm,” said Representative Roegner. “I would think everyone could agree to err on the side of caution, in light of the overwhelming scientific evidence, when it comes to the question of whether a five month pre-born baby can feel pain.”
In November 2014, The Quinnipiac University Poll found that 60% of Americans would support prohibiting abortion after 20 weeks, while only 33% opposed such legislation. Women voters strongly support such a law by 59-35%, while independent voters supported it by 56-36%. …
“Human growth in the womb is truly amazing,” said Dr. Dennis Sullivan, director of the Center for Bioethics at Cedarville University. “Most fetal organs are fully formed by the end of the first three months of development. We also know that unborn babies react to external stimuli very early on, and pull away from probes and operating instruments when procedures are done late in pregnancy. I am so thankful that society is finally recognizing the need to protect its most vulnerable members from unnecessary and horrific pain and suffering. It is our solemn duty to pass the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act.”
“The outpouring of support that we have received for this legislation goes to show that Ohio is ready and eager to catch up with the rest of the developed world by affirming the humanity of the unborn,” said Stephanie Ranade Krider, executive director of Ohio Right to Life. “We are hopeful that with this legislation we will be able to welcome more and more voices into our movement, showing that the right to life really is a bipartisan issue that everyone has a stake in.”
The introduction of the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act in both the Ohio House and Senate marks a significant step forward in the ongoing efforts to protect the rights of the unborn and ensure their dignity and well-being. This legislation represents a critical response to growing concerns about the pain experienced by unborn children during late-term abortions, a matter that demands urgent attention and action.
At the heart of the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act is the recognition of the scientific evidence indicating that unborn babies can experience pain by at least 20 weeks gestation, if not earlier. This scientific consensus underscores the moral imperative to enact measures that safeguard these vulnerable lives and prevent their unnecessary suffering.
By introducing this legislation in both chambers of the Ohio General Assembly, lawmakers are signaling their commitment to upholding the sanctity of human life and promoting policies that reflect the values of compassion and respect for all individuals, regardless of their stage of development. The Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act reaffirms Ohio’s dedication to protecting the most vulnerable members of society and ensuring that their rights are upheld and respected under the law.
Furthermore, the introduction of this legislation reflects the broader national conversation surrounding abortion rights and restrictions. With similar laws already in place in several states across the country, the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act aligns Ohio with a growing movement to enact compassionate and scientifically informed policies that prioritize the well-being of both mothers and their unborn children.
In addition to its moral and ethical considerations, the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act also addresses concerns related to women’s health and safety. Late-term abortions pose significant risks to maternal health and can result in complications that jeopardize the well-being of women. By limiting the availability of these procedures after 20 weeks gestation, Ohio seeks to protect the health and safety of pregnant women while also upholding the rights of their unborn children.
As the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act progresses through the legislative process, it is essential for policymakers to engage in thoughtful and informed dialogue, considering the perspectives of all stakeholders involved. By working together to enact policies that promote life-affirming alternatives and support for women facing unplanned pregnancies, Ohio can continue to lead the way in protecting the rights and dignity of every human life within its borders.
In conclusion, the introduction of the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act in both the Ohio House and Senate represents a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to protect the rights of the unborn and promote a culture of life. By recognizing the humanity of unborn children and acknowledging their capacity to feel pain, Ohio reaffirms its commitment to upholding the sanctity of human life and ensuring that every individual is treated with dignity and respect from conception to natural death.
Chelsea Garcia is a political writer with a special interest in international relations and social issues. Events surrounding the war in Ukraine and the war in Israel are a major focus for political journalists. But as a former local reporter, she is also interested in national politics.
Chelsea Garcia studied media, communication and political science in Texas, USA, and learned the journalistic trade during an internship at a daily newspaper. In addition to her political writing, she is pursuing a master's degree in multimedia and writing at Texas.
