Republican lawmakers in Tennessee are pushing legislation that would make it illegal for adults to assist minors in obtaining abortions without parental consent. The bill passed in the GOP-controlled Senate and is making its way toward the House floor. Critics, including Democratic state Sen. Raumesh Akbari, argue that this could force young victims of rape or incest to seek approval from their abusers in order to terminate pregnancies.
Following the Supreme Court’s overturning of the constitutional right to abortion in 2022, anti-abortion advocates have been pushing for laws to prevent pregnant individuals from traveling to other states for the procedure. Tennessee is the latest state to consider such legislation, which would also impose criminal penalties on adults who assist minors in getting abortions without parental consent. Supporters claim this is a necessary measure to protect parental rights.
However, opponents argue that the bill lacks exemptions for minors who may have been abused by their parents or guardians. Under the proposed law, those convicted of breaking it could face a Class A misdemeanor charge, with potential jail time of nearly one year. Critics are concerned that the bill could further restrict access to abortion in a state where it is already heavily regulated.
The bill’s passage in the Senate is a controversial move that has sparked debate among lawmakers and reproductive rights groups. A court decision on whether to block the law is expected soon, as the legal battle over abortion rights in Tennessee continues.
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