Florida has become the latest state to enact a heartbeat bill as Republican Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed legislation banning abortion after 6 weeks gestation Thursday.
The Heartbeat Protection Act bans abortion after the sixth week of pregnancy except in cases where the mother conceived from rape, incest, or human trafficking, in which case about is allowed at 15 weeks gestation. The law also allows an exception if the life of the mother is threatened. In cases of fatal fetal abnormalities, abortion is allowed until the third trimester. (RELATED: Kamala Harris Says ‘No Medication’ Is Safe From Attack After Appeals Court Abortion Pills Ruling)
The bill passed the Florida Legislature Thursday.
Signed the Heartbeat Protection Act, which expands pro-life protections and devotes resources to help young mothers and families. pic.twitter.com/quZpSj1ZPk
— Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) April 14, 2023
“We are proud to support life and family in the state of Florida,” DeSantis said in a press release. “I applaud the Legislature for passing the Heartbeat Protection Act that expands pro-life protections and provides additional resources for young mothers and families.”
Pro-life organizations celebrated the new law as a “an enormous victory in the battle for human rights.”
“No longer will Florida account for 10% of abortions in the nation or be known as an abortion destination,” Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America President Marjorie Dannenfelser said. “More moms who need financial and emotional support will get the help they need during pregnancy and after their child is born. Most of all, tens of thousands of precious boys and girls will live and have the opportunity to pursue their dreams, bless the lives of others, and enhance Florida’s communities.”
Dr. Kathi Aultman, a former abortionist and associate schools at the Charlotte Lozier Institute, said that “Research has shown that if a heartbeat is detected, a baby has more than a 90% chance of surviving to birth.”
“I wish this kind of protection had been in place when I chose to have my abortion. It would have saved my child and saved me a lifetime of regret.”
