A 2020 anti-abortion protest in Lansing (File photo)
It would certainly be vetoed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, but a bill introduced in the Michigan House, co-sponsored by its most conservative members, shows what the most dedicated abortion opponents in the Legislature think post-Roe v. Wade laws should be:
- It holds women harmless, but brings the hammer down on abortion providers, whether they be doctors (10 years in prison) or those who produce, provide or facilitate the administration of abortion-inducing drugs (20 years). Plan B and other so-called morning-after pills would be allowed.
- It makes allowances for abortion for pregnancies that threaten the health of the mother, but excludes "mental conditions," including threats of suicide.
Abortion remains legal in every state, despite Michigan and many others having dormant state laws that criminalize all abortions except those performed to protect the life of the pregnant person. If the high court overrules Roe — a decision expected as soon as Thursday and some time before the end of June — prosecutors could immediately start using those laws again to charge doctors and others connected to abortions.
In May, Michigan Court of Claims Judge Elizabeth Gleicher issued a temporary injunction that seeks to block enforcement of the state's abortion ban if Roe is overturned. In a statement, Carra said that ruling prompts the need for new legislative action.
"Although the Legislature is doing its best to defend (the existing abortion ban), it will most likely result in a defeat for the pro-life movement, and it is time to begin exploring other avenues to protect the sanctity of human life," (co-sponsor Rep. Steve) Carra said.
Besides Carra, the bill's other co-sponsors are Reps. Matt Maddock, R-Milford, Gary Eisen, R-St. Clair Township, Bob Bezotte, R-Marian Township, Daire Rendon, R-Lake City, and TC Clements, R-Temperance.
The bill was referred to the House Judiciary Committee, but no action has been taken.
