The new laws will take effect July 1, 2010, unless they are legally challenged by abortion proponents in Tulsa and New York City. They replace previous bills passed in 2009, which were later deemed unconstitutional for violating the state constitution's single-subject rule. The new laws will:
- prevent sex-selection abortions in Oklahoma (and will mandate revoking the license to practice of any abortionist who violates the law)
- require that only licensed physicians administer the RU-486 abortion pill to women (via medical prescription), and
- protect the freedom of conscience and religious beliefs of Oklahomans to not participate in abortion or other bioethical concerns related to human embryos, fetal transplants, and euthanasia.
HB 2780, which would require all women contemplating abortion be given an ultrasound exam of her fetus in-utero. The woman would not be required to view the baby's image, but the ultrasound image would be described to her.
HB 3284, would require that non-identifying statistical information about women who have abortions be reported to the state Health Department. Abortionists would also have to report all complications that occur during abortion procedures.
These last two bills are the most troubling ones to the abortion industry. Whether Gov. Henry will sign or veto them, if passed by the state Senate, remains to be seen.
If you wish to contact Gov. Henry, to thank him for signing the three bills noted above, his office phone is (405) 521-2342.
