WASHINGTON, DC -- U.S. Representative Jo Ann Emerson (R-MO) voted yesterday to ban the gruesome procedure known as partial-birth abortion. H.R. 3660 bans performance of partial-birth abortion at any point in pregnancy except if it were necessary to save the life of the mother. However, over 90% of partial-birth abortions are performed on normal babies. "By voting to end this practice, we send a message that life is important, children are important, and families are important" said Emerson. "Over and over again, Congress has voted to outlaw this inhumane practice, and each time this legislation has been vetoed by the President. I hope by once again expressing our opinion on this issue we can make the President understand that life is sacred." The legislation is supported by a number of organizations including the American Medical Association and the National Right to Life Committee. In spite of this support, President Clinton has twice vetoed legislation. Nearly 70% of Americans oppose partial-birth abortion, and 30 states have banned partial-birth abortion since 1995. The bill passed the House of Representatives yesterday by a near veto-proof margin of 287-141 with 7 members not voting (290 votes are needed to over-ride a Presidential veto). "This issue is too important to give up on," explained Emerson. "Each time it comes to the floor we send a message to President Clinton and others that barbaric procedures like this will not be tolerated by a civilized society. We value life and our children. It's time the Clinton-Gore Administration placed the same value on human life."