The 62nd Session

Bill mired in abortion debate moves forward at MT legislature

Posted: Jan 14, 2011 10:55 AM by Associated Press
Updated: Jan 14, 2011 11:06 AM

HELENA - A legislative measure making it illegal to kill an unborn child easily got out of committee despite being mired in the abortion debate.
Most of the minority Democrats on the House Judiciary Committee voted against the bill Friday, arguing abortion opponents will use it as a backdoor attack on the legal procedure.
Supporters of the bill say it has nothing to do with abortion and pointed out the bill exempts "lawful procedures" from prosecution. But those supporters were unwilling to change the measure to clarify that the protected procedures specifically include abortion.
The bill's supporters argue the bill is needed to prosecute those who kill an unborn baby, perhaps during a crime against the expectant mother.
It will now go to the House floor for a vote.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Topics: abortion, legislature, Montana