Oklahoma lawmakers passed a bill that will impose a near-total ban on abortion in its state.
Medical professionals convicted of performing an abortion in most cases – except when it could “save a life of a pregnant woman in a medical emergency” – could face up to $100,000 of fines and 10 years in prison. Senate Bill 612 would make performing or attempting to perform an abortion a felony.
The vote sending the bill to OK-Governor Kevin Stitt’s office received 70 votes in favor and only 14 against, with no debate or questions on the legislative floor.
The author of the bill, Representative Jim Olsen-Republican, was thrilled when the bill passed, and said it could help save the life of many babies.
Olsen said a child conceived in a “horrible situation” like rape or incest – “a horrible crime” – “still has a right to life.”
“The baby should not be liable for the sins of the father,” Olsen said. “It is still a life.”
