Abortion

I do not believe it is feasible for our country to enact a law that permits abortion on a nationwide scale. Additionally, I am uncertain how the Supreme Court would rule on such a law. The standard of care for managing second-trimester miscarriages or ruptures of membranes prior to fetal viability involves offering patients either a dilation and evacuation procedure or an induction to terminate the pregnancy, even in cases where a fetal heartbeat is still present.

Sometimes, a medical abortion procedure is necessary. I feel fortunate to live in a state that supports access to abortion, even though I would never encourage any of my loved ones to pursue the procedure unless it is medically required. I do not believe my faith should dictate how another person should act. Jesus of Nazareth, as I understand him, was compassionate and offered forgiveness to all who repented. This teaches me to empathize with and show compassion for those facing difficult choices as well. 

The language of Texas' abortion law (SB 8) has instilled fear in doctors and hospitals, leading them to wait for either the fetal heartbeat to cease or for the mother to develop a life-threatening condition, whichever occurs first. This has resulted in increased rates of sepsis among second-trimester miscarriage hospitalizations since the ban took effect. Specifically, following the implementation of SB 8, the sepsis rate rose by 55%, and maternal mortality rates in Texas have increased significantly.

I believe that the individuals responsible for this and similar laws had good intentions. Unfortunately, the unintended consequences have been cruel. To prevent these harmful and deadly outcomes from occurring anywhere in the United States, I believe it is essential to establish the recognized standard of care as law throughout our country. I will advocate for this bill.