The Florida Senate is slated to take up a controversial abortion measure Thursday. The House just recently passed the same bill requiring pregnant women to wait 24 hours before having an abortion.
“This is the bill requiring a 24 hour reflection period before seeking an abortion, empowering women to make an informed decision versus an unexpected, rushed, and pressured one,” said Rep. Jennifer Sullivan (R-Mount Dora), the bill's House sponsor.
But, Rep. Cynthia Stafford (D-Miami) says she disagrees with the “empowerment” premise.
“Not only does this bill not empower women, it takes our power away,” said Stafford, during Wednesday's floor debate. “If I have to wait, you’ve taken my power away from me for a decision I’ve already made as if I can’t make any decisions on my own, in my own time. I believe this bill is demeaning, disrespectful, and offensive to women because if I’ve made a decision for myself, this 2-hour mandate is disrespecting my choice about my body and my health.”
And, the House passed the measure 77-41 mostly along party lines with most Democrats opposed.
For more news updates, follow Sascha Cordner on Twitter: @SaschaCordner.
