McKinley Votes to Protect the Unborn, Empower Women, and Save Lives

Press Release

Congressman David B. McKinley, P.E., (WV-1) voted today to protect unborn children capable of feeling pain from abortion. H.R. 36, the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act, would prohibit abortion after 20 weeks of pregnancy, allow exceptions for cases of when life of the mother is threatened, rape, or incest, and provides compassionate care for mother and child. A similar state law takes effect in West Virginia this month.

"Today's vote is important for unborn children and their mothers. This bill protects the sanctity of life while striking a common-sense balance supported by sound science and a majority of the American people," said McKinley.

In recent polls, more than 60% of Americans agreed with limiting abortions after 20 weeks. A growing body of scientific research has confirmed that unborn children react to pain after 20 weeks of development and are able to survive premature birth.

H.R. 36 ensures women receive counseling or medical care for a traumatic event that precipitated her pregnancy prior to obtaining an abortion. The bill also empowers women going through the difficult decision of seeking a late-term abortion by requiring her doctor to provide information about her rights.

"I am proudly pro-life and have been my entire life. Today's vote fulfills a promise made to West Virginians to always defend life and fight for the most vulnerable among us," added McKinley.

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