Tennessee Republican lawmakers are pushing forward with a controversial bill that would make it illegal for adults to help minors obtain abortions without parental consent. The bill, which has passed the GOP-controlled Senate, has sparked objections from Democrats who argue that it could force young victims of rape or incest to seek approval from their abusers in order to terminate pregnancies. The legislation is part of a broader effort by anti-abortion advocates to restrict access to the procedure following the U.S. Supreme Court’s overturning of the constitutional right to abortion. Similar laws have been introduced in other states like Oklahoma and Mississippi.
Supporters of the Tennessee bill claim that it is necessary to protect parental rights and prevent minors from accessing abortions in states with stricter bans. Critics, however, argue that the bill lacks exemptions for minors who may have been victims of rape by their parents or guardians. Under the proposed law, those convicted of helping minors obtain abortions without parental consent could face imprisonment, with penalties varying between a Class A misdemeanor and a Class C felony.
Tennessee currently bans abortions at all stages of pregnancy, with exemptions for certain medical conditions. However, a group of women is suing to challenge the state’s abortion ban, arguing that it is too vague and restrictive. A court decision on the lawsuit is pending, as the legal battle over abortion rights in Tennessee continues to unfold.
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