South Carolina GOP lawmakers introduce bill to criminalize abortion as murder

 South Carolina legislators have introduced a new bill aimed at criminalizing abortion by treating it as homicide from the moment of conception. This proposal, called the Prenatal Equal Protection Act, has caused significant discussion regarding its implications and potential challenges.

• Bill Overview: The Prenatal Equal Protection Act seeks to redefine abortion as murder under state law. It would apply existing homicide laws to unborn children, thus offering them full legal protection.

• Legislative Action: The bill is set for a hearing in the South Carolina House Constitutional Laws Subcommittee, which indicates consideration for a vote.

• Support and Motivation: Proponents, including Republican state Senator Lee Bright, argue that previous abortion laws merely regulated the procedure without eliminating it. Supporters believe that the new bill reflects a necessary shift to ensure equal legal protection for unborn children.

• Contention and Critiques:

• Critics, like State Representative Rob Harris, argue that prior laws already recognized life at conception while allowing certain abortions, which they see as contradictory.

• There are concerns about the bill’s application to all parties involved, including potential criminal charges against pregnant women.

• Political Landscape: The South Carolina General Assembly is predominantly Republican, suggesting the bill has a chance to pass if party unity is maintained. However, previous efforts to tighten abortion regulations have faced divisions within the party.

• National Support and Threats: The bill has garnered backing from national anti-abortion groups who warn that lawmakers not supporting it could face challenges in primary elections.

• Potential Challenges: Critics are expected to raise questions about the enforcement of the law, potential criminal penalties, and constitutional issues that may arise if the bill is enacted.

The introduction of the Prenatal Equal Protection Act represents a significant escalation in the abortion debate in South Carolina, aiming to provide complete legal rights to unborn babies. As discussions progress, the bill’s fate will depend largely on the dynamics within the Republican-controlled legislature and the response from constituents and advocacy groups. 

https://www.foxnews.com/politics/south-carolina-gop-lawmakers-introduce-bill-criminalize-abortion-murder?utm_source=pubexchange.com&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=pubexchange