Indiana Law Bans Abortions Based on Down Syndrome
Indiana is now the second state to pass a law that protects babies with fetal genetic abnormalities from abortion, including unborn babies with Down syndrome.
Gov. Mike Pence signed the bill into law Thursday, calling it "a measure that affirms the value of all human life."
In addition to prohibiting abortions for genetic defects, the law also bans abortions performed on the basis of the child's race, sex, or ancestry.
"I believe that a society can be judged by how it deals with its most vulnerable - the aged, the infirm, the disabled, and the unborn," Pence said in a statement.
Opponents say the law violates women's rights, but Gov. Pence says it's about protecting the dignity of unborn babies.
Under the law, doctors who perform forbidden abortions could be sued for wrongful death or be admonished by the state medical licensing board.
Pence was a leading pro-life advocate while serving in Congress before being elected Indiana's governor in 2012. He has received high marks for his pro-life advocacy from Indiana Right to Life.
"By signing the dignity for the unborn bill, Gov. Pence has again signified his commitment to protecting life," Mike Fichter, president of IRL, said in a statement. "We are pleased that our state values life no matter an individual's potential disability, gender or race."
