Letter to Congress in Support of the Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act
April 25, 2005
Dear Member of Congress:
I am writing to urge your support for the Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act (H.R. 748).
This legislation affirms parents' right to protect their minor daughter from those who have no legal responsibility for her, and who unilaterally decide that a secret abortion is her best "option." The disturbing and growing phenomena of boyfriends or relatives transporting teenage girls across state lines, to evade states' parental involvement laws on abortion, is reason enough for quick passage of this legislation.
The bill protects vulnerable teens, by allowing parents to file suit in such cases to vindicate their fundamental rights and responsibilities regarding the care of their children. The bill also requires that prior to the performance of an abortion on a minor from another state, the abortionist notify a parent. These provisions will help protect the rights of parents living in states with parental notification or consent laws on abortion. No one else -- boyfriends, in-laws, counselors, or friends – has a right to usurp the fundamental role of parents in such situations. The bill also makes provision for special cases, as when a minor may be a victim of parental abuse or neglect.
The need for protecting minors is compelling. Girls can experience lifelong emotional and physical trauma or even die from abortion. Parents should not be kept in the dark when the welfare of their children and their unborn grandchildren is at stake. In such situations, the love and support of families is critical and needs to be encouraged. Many states have wisely chosen to protect parents' rights in this area, and the intent of their protective laws should not be thwarted.
I urge you to vote in favor of the Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act.
Sincerely,
Gail Quinn
Executive Director
Dear Member of Congress:
I am writing to urge your support for the Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act (H.R. 748).
This legislation affirms parents' right to protect their minor daughter from those who have no legal responsibility for her, and who unilaterally decide that a secret abortion is her best "option." The disturbing and growing phenomena of boyfriends or relatives transporting teenage girls across state lines, to evade states' parental involvement laws on abortion, is reason enough for quick passage of this legislation.
The bill protects vulnerable teens, by allowing parents to file suit in such cases to vindicate their fundamental rights and responsibilities regarding the care of their children. The bill also requires that prior to the performance of an abortion on a minor from another state, the abortionist notify a parent. These provisions will help protect the rights of parents living in states with parental notification or consent laws on abortion. No one else -- boyfriends, in-laws, counselors, or friends – has a right to usurp the fundamental role of parents in such situations. The bill also makes provision for special cases, as when a minor may be a victim of parental abuse or neglect.
The need for protecting minors is compelling. Girls can experience lifelong emotional and physical trauma or even die from abortion. Parents should not be kept in the dark when the welfare of their children and their unborn grandchildren is at stake. In such situations, the love and support of families is critical and needs to be encouraged. Many states have wisely chosen to protect parents' rights in this area, and the intent of their protective laws should not be thwarted.
I urge you to vote in favor of the Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act.
Sincerely,
Gail Quinn
Executive Director