Indiana Republicans propose banning abortion with exceptions

By TOM DAVIES 

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Leaders of Indiana's Republican-dominated Senate have proposed banning abortion with limited exceptions — a move that comes amid a political firestorm over a 10-year-old rape victim who came to the state from neighboring Ohio to end her pregnancy.

The proposal announced Wednesday will be taken up during a special legislative session that is scheduled to begin Monday, making Indiana one of the first Republican-run states to debate tighter abortion laws following the U.S. Supreme Court decision last month overturning Roe v. Wade.

The proposal would allow exceptions to the ban, such as in cases of rape, incest or to protect a woman's life.

Its fate is uncertain, though, because some hardline Republicans want to ban all abortions.

Synopsis of the bill:

Abortion. Prohibits abortion unless: (1) the abortion is necessary to prevent a substantial permanent impairment of the life of the mother; or (2) the pregnancy was the result of rape or incest. Specifies other requirements for performing an abortion. Prohibits an abortion clinic from performing a surgical abortion. Defines "abortion", "pregnancy", "rape or incest", and "fetus". Provides a defense for a pregnant mother charged with a criminal offense for terminating or seeking the termination of her pregnancy. Specifies that a person who terminates the pregnancy of a pregnant woman upon her request may only be charged with certain crimes. Exempts from the crime of feticide: (1) the pregnant mother; (2) a person who provides medical treatment in good faith to a pregnant woman that results in the accidental or unintentional termination of the pregnancy; and (3) a physician who performs a medical procedure to terminate the pregnancy upon request of the pregnant woman. Repeals obsolete provisions and makes conforming amendments.

If passed, the bill would go into effect on September 1, 2022.

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