Florida Passes Controversial Abortion Ban

New Law Restricts Access to Abortion After 15 Weeks

Florida's Republican-controlled legislature has passed a bill that would ban abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy, with no exceptions for rape or incest. The bill is one of the most restrictive abortion laws in the country and is expected to be challenged in court. Republican Governor Ron DeSantis is expected to sign the bill into law.

Key Provisions of the Bill

The bill would prohibit abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy, except in cases where the mother's life is in danger or if the pregnancy is the result of rape or incest. The bill also requires that women seeking an abortion undergo an ultrasound at least 24 hours before the procedure and that they receive counseling from a state-licensed pregnancy center.

Reaction to the Bill

The bill has been met with widespread condemnation from abortion rights advocates, who argue that it is unconstitutional and will have a devastating impact on women's health. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has already filed a lawsuit challenging the law's constitutionality. Supporters of the bill argue that it is necessary to protect the lives of unborn children.

Impact of the Bill

If the bill is allowed to go into effect, it is expected to have a significant impact on women's access to abortion in Florida. The state already has some of the most restrictive abortion laws in the country, and the new law would further limit women's ability to obtain an abortion. This could lead to more women seeking abortions out of state or resorting to unsafe illegal abortions.

Conclusion

The passage of the abortion ban in Florida is a major setback for reproductive rights in the United States. The law is likely to face legal challenges, but its passage signals a growing trend towards restricting abortion access in the country.