Louisiana’s House Committee for the Administration of Criminal Justice passed House Bill 813, the “Abolition of Abortion in Louisiana Act of 2022”. The bill makes abortion a criminal offense.  The bill was introduced by Republican State Representative Danny McCormick and states that the state should “Fully recognize the human personhood of an unborn child at all stages of development prior to birth from the moment of fertilization,” and “Ensure the right to life and equal protection of the laws to all unborn children from the moment of fertilization by protecting them by the same laws protecting other human beings”.

Louisiana House’s criminal justice committee approved the bill in a 7-2 vote. The bill will now proceed to the full House for debate and if passed will make abortion in Louisiana a homicide. The Louisiana bill also states “that any federal law, regulation or court ruling that allows abortion is void and that any judge who blocks enforcement of the bill’s provisions could be impeached”.

State Representative Danny McCormick, in February, posted on Facebook, “If more than 15 states can defy the federal government over marijuana, we can do it to save the lives of innocent babies”.

Homicide statutes will be amended if the Abolition of Abortion in Louisiana Act passes. Ellie Schilling, a pro-choice lawyer says the bill subjects women to prosecution, “This is saying that people can be charged with murder for any act that they take against their own pregnancy,” said Ellie Schilling.

Minding Hearts is building advocacy and peer support groups in each state.  The groups are created to raise awareness, educate, and advocate for those that might not otherwise be heard. We are here for encouragement, education, and support. We cannot give legal advice, but we can try and direct you in the right direction with your case. Links to legal services are listed with their states. Please share and let’s grow our groups. We are here to support families and develop resources that maintain family integrity. We look forward to your support. If you would rather become active by donating, then visit the donation page.