Kansas Gov. Sebelius Vetoed Anti-Abortion Bill
H Sub SB 218 Would Have Rewritten Law on Late-Term Abortion
Apr 24, 2009
Kansas Gov. Kathleen Sebelius vetoed House Substitute for Senate Bill 218 (H Sub SB 218, a bill backed by anti-choice groups that would have rewritten restrictions on late-term abortion, citing concerns it is unconstitutional and would lead to an intimidation of abortion providers.
House Substitute for Senate Bill 218
H Sub SB 218 would have forced doctors to report additional information to the state about late-term abortions. The bill also would have allowed prosecutors to pursue criminal charges against more late-term abortion providers. The portion of the legislation focused on prosecution is most likely a backlash to the acquittal of Dr. George Tiller, a Kansas late-term abortion provider who was acquitted on 19 misdemeanor charges relating to late-term abortion.
In addition to allowing for more criminal prosecution, the bill also intended to open the floodgates to civil action against abortion providers. If a patient believes her doctor violated the late-term abortion law, then she can file a lawsuit. A lawsuit could also be filed by a patient's husband or parents.
But this may not be the end of House Substitute for Senate Bill 218. The Governor's veto could be overturned by the anti-abortion legislature. That is unlikely, however, because the bill originally passed with less support then it would need to override the veto.
Sebelius' Continued Support for Women's Rights
This is not the first time Governor Sebelius has stood up for a woman's right to choose. Last year on April 21, 2008, Sebelius vetoed the Comprehensive Abortion Reform Act (SB 389). She again questioned whether such legislation was constitutional and also raised issues about its efficacy and morality. Because of her continued support for the pro-choice cause, she has been endorsed by Planned Parenthood during her campaigns in 2003, 2005, 2006, and 2008.
The Relieved Pro-Choice Constituency
Pro-choice groups, such as Planned Parenthood of Kansas and Mid-Missouri, have shared their gratitude for Gov. Sebelius' veto and chided legislators for wasting the taxpayer's time and money for trying to restrict abortion rather than focus on the country's current economic crisis.
“We commend Governor Sebelius’ veto of this unnecessary legislation,” stated Peter Brownlie, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood of Kansas and Mid-Missouri. “The Governor once again showed leadership in representing the great majority of Kansans who support reasonable restrictions while assuring access to health care. Her action today sends a clear message that it’s time for the legislature to focus on preventing unintended pregnancy and increasing access to affordable health services.”
"Kansans want solutions that move the State forward in a positive direction, particularly in light of the current financial turmoil,” concluded Brownlie. “We need to stop wasting untold taxpayer dollars on legislative and legal battles that accomplish nothing. We call on our elected officials to support programs, including comprehensive sex education and family planning, that help women stay healthy and safe.”
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