Both the North Dakota House and Senate have now passed numerous anti-abortion bills. Between the two bodies, a total of 5 bills have been passed that would put greater restrictions on abortions within the state. Fargo contains the state’s only abortion clinic.
These bills await approval from Governor Jack Dalrymple before taking effect. One bill will require a public vote as it will amend the state’s constitution.
SB2305 – limit abortions and require any physician practicing abortion to be licensed in the state and possess admitting privileges at a local hospital. Passed: 58-34
SB2368 – outlaws any abortion after 20 weeks from fertilization, except in cases of serious medical complications or death. The bill does not contain provisions for rape or incest. Passed: 60-32
SCR4009 – defines inalienable human rights at all stages of development. This bill will trigger a public vote in 2014 to amend the state’s constitution with regards to the new abortion restrictions. Passed: 57-35
SB2303 – defines a human being at all stages of development. The bill would only allow abortions in the event of major medical complications that may put the mother’s life in danger. As well, the bill contains language to allow Medicaid coverage for pregnant mothers. Failed: 49-43
Read more:
- http://bismarcktribune.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/of-abortion-bills-pass/article_b0a07cbe-9379-11e2-bde0-0019bb2963f4.html
- http://kfyrtv.com/News_Stories.asp?news=62790
- http://www.kxnet.com/story/21771908/nd-voters-to-decide-abortion-issue
