The Senate this week passed what they are calling the “born alive” bill, which is mainly aimed at abortion practices.
Bill's sponsor, Chip Campsen (R-Charleston)
Senator Chip Campsen sponsored the bill because, “We have heard too many stories from around the nation about botched abortions and the aftermath.”
It would make it mandatory to use life-saving measures or medical comfort if a fetus lives after abortion. Since abortions past the second trimester are restricted to saving the life of the mother, the child could be dangerously premature.
Sen. Jake Knotts (R-Lexington), a supporter of the bill says, “You have to give it medical attention and if it doesn’t survive, then it was not meant to survive. You don’t let it just lay there and suffer. It’s a humane bill.”
The bill does allow “a parent or guardian to refuse treatment that is not medically appropriate or reasonable.”
The measure goes to the House by what is known as “crossover deadline” and could be passed this legislative session.
