Lawmakers tight-lipped about possible abortion law language
FORT WAYNE, Ind. (Fort Wayne’s NBC) - In a week and a half, the future of reproductive rights in Indiana could be decided during a special session at the statehouse.
With republican lawmakers poised to restrict or ban abortions in this state, what could potential new laws look like?
“The members of a political party in a particular chamber are within their rights to get together and talk about stuff and that happens in what we refer to as the caucus room,” PFW Political Science Professor Andy Downs said.
Downs says it’s safe to say more restrictive abortion laws will be passed by a republican dominated state legislature. However, lawmakers have been quiet bout what those new laws would look like.
“I think the reason why they’re not coming out with what they’re planning on doing is because they still haven’t figured out what it is they want to do,” Downs said. “We need to remember when it comes to this issue, the republican party doesn’t move in one direction.”
It’s a complex issues with a lot of opinions. We’ve seen protests in Indiana and across the nation. Democratic Rep. Phil GiaQuinta says he’s heard those pleas loud and clear.
“Most importantly I think it’s about the healthcare and the impact of the safety of women,” GiaQuinta said. “That’s number one in my book.”
Beyond healthcare, those who are pro choice believe there could be other consequences. In fact, 500 Hoosiers signed a letter for Gov. Eric Holcomb, opposing an abortion ban. Leaders of that group tell our news gathering partner WTHR, they’re worried it could drive business out of Indiana. However, others believe this won’t be an issue. Abigail Lorenzen with Right to Life of Northeast Indiana say the group wants a total ban on abortion.
“I think the person performing the abortion should face penalties,” Lorenzen said. “The know exactly what they’re doing. They’re taking human life and it’s innocent human life. There’s no justification for that.”
As we inch closer to July 25, Downs says the debate is far from over during this election year.
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