Terry Supports Two Measures Restricting Abortion

Washington, DC—Today Congressman Lee Terry (NE-02) announced his support for the Child Custody Protection Act and the Partial-Birth Abortion Ban.

The Child Custody Protection Act would make transporting a minor across state lines to obtain an abortion without parental consent a federal crime, if that action circumvents a state law requiring involvement of a parent or a judge in the girl’s abortion decision.

"We should not send the message that parents have the right to know where their daughter is, unless she is going to have an abortion," Terry said. "A minor who is forbidden to drink alcohol, to stay out past a certain hour, or to drive a car in some states, is certainly not prepared to make a life-altering, hazardous and potentially fatal decision without consulting at least one parent."

Currently, 22 states have laws requiring that parents be informed and involved in their child’s contemplation of abortion. Nebraska, for example, requires parental notification or a judicial waiver. The Child Custody Protection Act passed the House last Congress with 136 cosponsors, but the Senate failed to take any further action.

The Partial-Birth Abortion Ban enjoys wide bipartisan support and would ban a controversial procedure in which an abortion is performed after the woman has delivered all but the head of a newborn. Last Congress, the ban passed both the House and the Senate before being vetoed by President Clinton.

"There is no question that this outrageous and grotesque procedure should be banned," Terry stated. "I am proud to support this measure and will work to see it pass the House."