Washington D.C., Apr 28, 2005 / 22:00 pm
An official of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops is urging the Senate to pass a bill that would prevent adults from accompanying minor girls across state lines for an abortion without their parents’ consent.
It would also oblige doctors to inform parents before performing an abortion on a minor girl who is from out of state.
The House of Representatives passed the Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act, H.R. 748, yesterday. Cathy Cleaver Ruse praised the passage of the bill, but said the Senate must follow through.
“The practice of taking teens across state lines for secret abortions strikes at the heart of the family and the rights of parents," said the director of planning and information for the USCCB Secretariat for Pro-Life Activities.
Ruse said secret abortions also present “a grave danger” to the girls who undergo the surgical procedure without their medical records, and with no medical follow-up.
This Senate sponsor for the bill is Senator John Ensign (R-Nv.).
Subscribe to our daily newsletter
At Catholic News Agency, our team is committed to reporting the truth with courage, integrity, and fidelity to our faith. We provide news about the Church and the world, as seen through the teachings of the Catholic Church. When you subscribe to the CNA UPDATE, we'll send you a daily email with links to the news you need and, occasionally, breaking news.
As part of this free service you may receive occasional offers from us at EWTN News and EWTN. We won't rent or sell your information, and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Click hereOur mission is the truth. Join us!
Your monthly donation will help our team continue reporting the truth, with fairness, integrity, and fidelity to Jesus Christ and his Church.
Donate to CNA