A Florida Senate committee advanced heartbeat legislation today that could save tens of thousands of unborn babies from abortion every year and make the state the next to ban abortions.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis says he would sign the bill into law to protect women and unborn babies.
The Florida Senate’s Fiscal Policy committee approved the measure today, largely along party lines to protect unborn babies with a heartbeat and support nonprofits that provide resources for pregnant women and new moms.
SB 300 would protect unborn babies by banning most abortions once their heartbeat is detectable, about six weeks of pregnancy. Exceptions would be allowed for rape, incest and cases when the mother’s life is at risk or to avert “serious risk of substantial and irreversible physical impairment.”
“We have an unprecedented opportunity as lawmakers to protect innocent life,” Republican Senator Erin Grall said about her bill, saying would make Florida a “beacon of hope for those who understand that life must be protected.”
The pro-life bill also allocates $25 million for Florida pregnancy centers, which serve more than 76,000 women, men, youth and families annually. The centers offer free pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, medical exams, counseling, parent classes, financial classes, and resources such as food, diapers, clothing, and financial assistance for housing and utilities. The bill also provides for exceptions including rape, incest, and life of the mother and requires that risky abortion pills be distributed by a physician in person.