Abortion Rights Protest — Courtesy: Shutterstock — Bob Korn
A bill that would subsequently ban abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy is set to take another step forward on Monday, February 21.
The agenda for Florida’s Senate Appropriations Committee includes the “Reducing Fetal and Infant Mortality” bill.
The legislation being proposed revises the requirements and purpose for tobacco use prevention and creates local infant and fetal mortality review committees.
The most controversial part of the proposed bill is the 15-week abortion ban, which includes zero exceptions for incest, rape, or human trafficking.
“As a woman, it is my right to make decisions about my body and what is in the best interest of my family,” said Rep. Robin Bartleman, a Democrat. “God forbid your 11-year-old is raped and pregnant and you find out after 15 weeks, you don’t get to get your daughter that abortion, that’s what this law says.”
The only exceptions are if the fetus has fatal abnormalities or if the mother’s life is in danger, and both exceptions have to be approved by at least two doctors. The state of Florida currently allows abortions up to 24 weeks of pregnancy.
After six hours of debate, the bill was passed last week through the Florida House of Representatives.
Tampa Bay lawmakers sounded off on the proposed legislation and ultimately voted in conjunction with their respective parties.
“This issue is about standing up for those who can’t stand up for themselves,” said Republican State Rep. Kaylee Tuck who represents Highlands and Hardee counties.
“No one should be forced to have a child against their will, period,” argued State Rep. Susan Valdes (D-Hillsborough County)
“We trust individuals to make a choice about how to navigate a global pandemic, a choice that will have effects on a multitude of people. However, a woman who has fallen victim to rape, incest, or trafficking, isn’t allowed the same grace,” said State Rep. Dianne Hart (D-Hillsborough County).
“We fight to protect life at the end, life at the middle, but why not the beginning? Please support every stage of life,” State Rep. Jackie Toledo (R-Tampa) insisted.
“This is the right to life and to give up life is unconscionable to me,” said Republican Rep. Dana Trabulsy, who disclosed that she previously had an abortion but has “regretted it every day since.”
If the bill passes through the Republican-controlled Senate as is, it will be sent directly to Governor Ron DeSantis’ desk.
The governor has voiced support for the proposed legislation in the past.
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Born and raised in South Florida, Krystal is a recent graduate from the University of Miami with professional writing experience at the collegiate and national news outlet levels. She’s a foodie who loves all things travel, the beach, & visiting new places throughout Florida.