The ban on late-term abortions was passed by the House of Representatives on Tuesday, making abortions after 20 weeks of pregnancy illegal. The only instances where such abortions have not been outlawed are in cases of rape or incest or if the pregnancy puts the mother’s life at risk.
The Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act was passed by a 237-189 vote, reports CNN. The bill was supported by President Donald Trump who maintained he was determined to see the Act signed into law. The White House praised the House “for continuing its efforts to secure critical pro-life protections.” Similar laws did not win the required votes under President Barrack Obama in 2013 and 2015.
The vote was announced last week by majority leader Kevin McCarthy who believes the Act will “stop needless suffering.” He added that unborn children will now be protected and will be given an opportunity to grow and have fulfilled lives.
On the other hand, the Senate is unlikely to pass any bills associated with abortion any time soon. Republican Senator John Cornyn said that for the time being it is not a priority. Those opposing the legislation claim such bans on abortion are not compliant with the constitution and violate women’s rights, limiting their access to safe abortion.
There is also strong opposition in the Senate by Democrats which may prevent the measure from getting the 60 votes needed to be passed. They reject evidence provided by the White House that fetuses can feel pain at this stage of development, calling it “junk science.”
Those who perform abortions after the 20th week of development may face up to five years of imprisonment, whereas mothers will not be prosecuted.
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