The South Carolina Senate has passed a bill that would ban virtually all abortions with the exceptions of cases involving rape, incest, or medical emergencies that threaten the mother’s life.
The vote was overwhelming, with 28 in support of the bill and amendment limiting exceptions, while 10 were opposed.
The legislation faces steep odds of passing and becoming law – a Democrat filibuster is planned prior to the second vote of approval, and then it would move on to the GOP-controlled House.
Republican Governor Henry McMaster has vowed to sign any pro-life bills that come across his desk into law.
Should it get that far, the bill would likely trigger a court challenge, something Republicans supporting the bill are actively cheering. That is their end game it seems, seeking an ultimate review and challenge to Roe v. Wade.
BREAKING: South Carolina Senate just voted to outlaw virtually all abortions in South Carolina, with Senate Republicans hoping to spark a court challenge that overturns Roe v. Wade. 👶❤ https://t.co/cmxMfCdIJ1
— Devin Sena (@DevinSenaUI) May 3, 2018
South Carolina Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey explained, “It’s designed to give the court an opportunity to revisit Roe v. Wade.”
During testimony regarding a ban on ‘dismemberment’ abortions earlier in the week, state Senator Larry Grooms delivered an emotional speech.
“I wish we could end all abortions,” he said. “I do because I believe in life.”
“I believe it’s the most important thing that government can do is to protect the life of people,” he added. “And I believe unborn children are people.”
Tomorrow the SC Senate will debate the bill to make dismemberment abortion illegal in our state. The Democrats are expected to put on a protracted filibuster to protect this horrendous act…. https://t.co/24Rw69qQXD
— Larry Grooms (@larrygrooms) April 30, 2018
Some legislators have indicated the South Carolina proposal will ban roughly 97 percent of abortions in the state, some 5,500 lives saved.
Various media outlets have credited President Trump with a revival in legislation across the country attempting to challenge Roe v. Wade.
“Perhaps emboldened by his judicial appointments, legislators are introducing new abortion bans that directly challenge the tenets of Roe,” Anna North at Vox writes.
Trump, leading up to his election, promised to nominate pro-life judges to the Supreme Court in an attempt to overturn the 1973 decision.
When asked if he wanted to see Roe overturned Trump responded, “Well if we put another two or perhaps three justices on, that’s really what’s going to be — that will happen.”
If the South Carolina bill gets that far, he’ll need at least one more opportunity to name a judge to the court.
Rumors have been circulating for some time that Justice Anthony Kennedy is considering retirement, perhaps providing an opening.
Should all abortions with the above exceptions be outlawed? Share your thoughts below!
