Reps. Pitts, Fleming, Hartzler on House Passage of Pain-Capable Bill

Press Release

On May 13, 2015, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 36, the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act by a vote of 242 to 184. If enacted, the bill would restrict abortions starting at the sixth month of gestation.

Upon House passage of this legislation, Congressmen Joe Pitts (PA-16), John Fleming, M.D. (LA-04) and Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler (MO-04) released the following statements:

Congressman Pitts:

"I would like to congratulate my colleagues and House leadership on the passage of this important legislation, which will ensure that women and unborn children are protected from late-term abortionists like Philadelphia's Kermit Gosnell. This historic legislation will protect the most vulnerable and defenseless of us all: innocent unborn children who are capable of feeling pain, but who are voiceless. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to take this up as soon as possible and send it to the President's desk."

Congressman Fleming, M.D.:

"As a family practice physician, it's been my privilege to welcome many new lives into this world. Every child, born and unborn, is a gift to be celebrated. Today's legislation builds on what we know about life inside the womb and the pain an unborn child feels at 20 weeks post-fertilization. H.R. 36 protects the lives of pre-born babies in the fifth month of development, babies that we know feel and respond to painful stimuli. I am pleased to be a cosponsor of this legislation which includes much needed protections for both the mother and her baby."

Congresswoman Hartzler:
"This bill is a positive step forward in the fight to protect the lives of the unborn. After the concerns with the original version, I was glad to work with a great group of leaders in the House and pro-life advocates to craft this bill. Though I pray one day we will see a world where no innocent babies are killed, I am proud to support this critical measure that spares babies from the excruciating pain of an abortion. All life is sacred, and we must protect it. Congress cannot stand by as babies who are capable of feeling excruciating pain are forced to suffer. It is extremely important that we continue to defend the value of every child - born or unborn."

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