The state of Florida is one step closer to cutting off abortions after six weeks. Currently the state’s abortion cut-off is at 15 weeks, meaning any abortions after the first trimester would be illegal.
The Florida bill is sponsored by Republican representative Jenna Persons-Mulicka, who believes the bill is “a result of listening,” according the WFLA News.
The House Bill 7 states very clearly that this ban on abortions after six weeks isn’t to be taken lightly, blocking abortion supporters from using state funds to go to another state to have an abortion.
“A person, governmental entity or educational institution may not expend state funds…in any way for a person to travel to another state to receive services that are intended to support an abortion…” the bill reads.
There are a few exceptions, for example, if the state is required by federal law to provide such an accommodation or if the mother’s life is at risk or she is perceived to be in imminent, physical danger.
A woman will also still be able to get an abortion if the baby was conceived through rape or incest and is less than 15 weeks. However, the mother would be required to provide documentation including, “a copy of a restraining order, police report, medical record or other court order or documentation proving that she is obtaining the termination of pregnancy because she is a victim of rape or incest. If the woman is a minor, the physician must report the incident of rape or incest to the central abuse hotline.”
The state Senate will also begin pursuing this legislation as the House Bill goes through one final committee.
While many Christians perceive abortions at all stages to be wrong, this is still one-stepping stone closer to the ultimate goal of ending abortion altogether. Galatians 1:15 tells us: “But when it pleased God, who set me apart since I was in my mother’s womb and called by His grace…” It is clear that it is within God’s good and perfect plan to call each person while He is still fashioning them together within the womb, and it by His grace and mercy alone that we find purpose and meaning.
There are still many hearts that must be softened to get to the point where abortion is considered an injustice and an evil within our society. For those who find themselves on the pro-life side of the equation, we should not only be praying for the unborn children, but for those who consider themselves to be pro-choice, that their hearts and minds may be opened to the truth. {eoa}
Abby Trivett is a marketing copywriter and coordinator and Staff Writer intern for Charisma Media.
