Anti-Choice Bill Shot Down by Senate Committee

By Shannon S.
SD Public Affairs Manager

This morning, the Senate Health and Human Services Committee shot down Senate Bill 92 in the State Legislature.

This bill was an attack on women, families, and abortion providers in the state, requiring a doctor to be on the premise of the clinic 24 hours prior to a procedure should the woman decide she wants to have a consultation the day before her procedure.

The Committee voted 4 to 3 to move the bill to the 41st Day – the session only lasts 40 days – so the bill is dead.

Thanks to Senators Tom Dempster, Pam Merchant, Stan Adelstein, and Sandy Jerstad for their votes to defeat the bill.

No where in the nation is it more difficult for women to obtain abortions than it is in South Dakota. Instead of further restrictions, we must now work on prevention. Prevention is the true way to reduce unintended pregnancy and the need for abortion in this state.

Senate Bill 134 which aims for contraceptive equity will be heard by the same committee next Wednesday, February 18th at 7:45 am. This bill is what South Dakota needs.

Stay Tuned.