New Proposed Bill in Florida Would Ban Abortions on Babies with Down Syndrome

This week, a Florida state representative introduced a bill that would prohibit abortions on the basis of a preborn baby being diagnosed with Down Syndrome or another disability.

Republican Rep. Erin Grall filed the bill this week ahead of the state’s upcoming legislative session.

The Florida state legislature is scheduled to convene on March 2 and adjourn on April 30. This gives the state’s elected officials just shy of two months to consider the bill.

The bill, H.B. 1221, would prohibit “disability abortions,” which “means any disease, defect, or disorder that is genetically inherited.” This includes:

1. A physical disability;
2. A mental or intellectual disability;
3. A physical disfigurement;
4. Down syndrome;
5. Scoliosis;
6. Dwarfism
7. Albinism;
8. Amelia; or
9. A physical or mental disease.

The bill goes on to stipulate that “any person who willfully performs, or actively participates in, a termination of pregnancy in violation of the requirements… commits a felony of the third degree.”

Additionally, the proposed legislation provides an exception to the prohibition on “disability abortions” when it may be necessary to save the life of the mother.

H.B. 1221 stands a good chance of becoming law considering Republicans control both chambers of the state legislature and the pro-life stance of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.

This legislation provides a good reminder to pro-life supporters who have been working to protect life in the womb for decades. Despite current efforts by the Biden Administration to provide additional funding to Planned Parenthood, and maneuvers by Congressional Democrats to strip Hyde Amendment protections from the upcoming budget bill, the push to protect life on a more local level continues across the country.

Many pro-life Americans may be frustrated by the direction of the federal government. However, now is not the time for pro-life supporters to throw up our hands in resignation.

Rather, with the 50th anniversary of Roe v. Wade approaching, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and get to work.

The fight for life won’t stop until every baby is protected and found worthy of life.

To see whether pro-life legislation is being considered in your state, check out your state’s Family Policy Council here.

You can follow this author on Parler @ZacharyMettler

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