Governor Edwards Signs Two Pro-Life Bills, including the Woman's Enhanced Reflection Act
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Rep. Katrina Jackson and Rep. Frank Hoffman join Governor John Bel Edwards for the Signing of HB 386 and HB 488
Today, Governor John Bel Edwards was joined by Representative Katrina Jackson (D-Monroe) and Representative Frank Hoffman (R- West Monroe) for the signing of two important pro-life bills, HB 386 and HB 488, in Louisiana Right to Life's 2016 Legislative Package. The Bioethics Defense Fund provided legal consultation on both pieces of legislation.
* HB 386, the Woman's Enhanced Reflection Act, authored by Rep. Frank Hoffmann (R-West Monroe), would increase the current time for reflection between pre-abortion counseling and the actual abortion procedure from 24 hours to 72 hours.
Louisiana Right to Life Legislative Director Deanna Wallace said, "We applaud Governor Edwards for signing the Woman's Enhanced Reflection Act into law today, and we thank Representative Hoffman for his leadership on this crucial measure. We also recognize the many legislators that supported this legislation, including the majority of women legislators. This important bill empowers women considering abortion with additional reflection time before an abortion so they can consider their options more effectively. Since abortion facilities in Louisiana are only in the business of selling abortion, this reflection period allows for further consideration of other choices, including adoption and parenting. In situations of coercion or violence, HB 386 gives a woman more time to reach out for help before being forced into an abortion they do not want. Today is a victory for women in Louisiana."
HB 386 was passed by the Louisiana House by a 89-5 margin and the Louisiana Senate 34-4.
* HB 488, the Board Certification Requirement for Abortion Providers Act, authored by Representative Katrina Jackson is a regulation requiring that those performing abortions in Louisiana are either a Board Certified physician, or are under direct supervision by a Board Certified physician.
Louisiana Right to Life Legislative Director Deanna Wallace said, "We commend Rep. Katrina Jackson for continuing her work of protecting the health and safety of Louisiana women by ensuring that unqualified physicians are not performing abortions in Louisiana. We appreciate Governor Edwards for singing this legislation into law."
