While the Senate’s legislation to restrict abortions (Senate Bill 1) passed on Saturday with the slimmest of margins (26-20), the ultimate outcome remains unclear. One positive for the business community is that thus far, we have successfully kept any legislative interference with employers’ rights (as they pertain to benefits plans) out of this bill.
Several Republican senators noted on the Senate floor that they didn’t like the bill and voted in favor of it only to keep the conversation going. The Republicans most displeased with SB 1 are those who think the bill doesn’t go far enough in protecting life, but a few think it is too restrictive. Without at least a portion of these Republicans voting for a final proposal, it will be impossible to enact. The bill was amended last week with two additions each by Senate Republicans and Democrats, but the core of the legislation is the same: Abortion would be banned except for when the mother’s life is in danger and in instances of rape or incest.
As the action on SB 1 now turns to the House, it will be a replay of the activity from last week – with much testimony and debate. House leadership has played their cards very close to their chest, with House Speaker Todd Huston (R-Fishers) only revealing he supports the exceptions currently in SB 1. So it remains to be seen how the House changes that legislation.
Resource: Kevin Brinegar at (317) 264-6882 or kbrinegar@indianachamber.com.
