By Brandon Moseley
Alabama Political Reporter
The Republican controlled Alabama state legislature passed landmark legislation on Tuesday that will soon hold abortion clinics to a much higher standard of regulation. Abortion clinic operators, including Planned Parenthood meanwhile claim that they will not be able to afford to upgrade their facilities to the higher standard of an outpatient surgery center as required by the bill, HB 57, which is expected to be signed by Alabama Governor Robert Bentley (R).
Alabama Lieutenant Governor Kay Ivey (R) said, “I am strongly pro-life. We cannot ban abortion because that is a federal issue, but at the state level we can regulate and control unsafe health practices. I support the Legislature’s efforts to restrict the operation of unsafe clinics to help insure a woman’s health.”
Bill sponsor Rep. Mary Sue McClurkin (R) from Indian Springs said, “The women of Alabama deserve the highest possible standard of healthcare, particularly at such a difficult time. If an abortion clinic is truly dedicated to providing adequate care, ensuring dependable safeguards, and putting patients’ needs before profits, it will embrace this legislation rather than oppose it. I am proud that the state of Alabama is daring to defend the right to life.”
On Wednesday Speaker of the House Mike Hubbard (R) from Auburn said on Facebook. “Last night, the Alabama Legislature passed bold right to life legislation. Women seeking abortions in Alabama are now one signature away from having new and important medical safeguards with the passage of the Women’s Health and Safety Act. Thanks to Rep. Mary Sue McClurkin for spearheading this important legislation.”
Rep. Mack Butler (R) from Rainbow City said on Facebook, “I’m proud to have voted yes for HB57- The Women’s Health and Safety Act. This bill is getting noticed nationally for it’s efforts to prevent abuse and shut down fly-by-night practices.”
Hubbard said, “With passage of this much needed measure, Republicans boldly defended the rights of the unborn and courageously safeguarded the health and safety of Alabama women. Though I am completely opposed to legalized abortion, the U.S. Supreme Court unfortunately allows it to remain the law of the land, but with the passage of this legislation, we are doing everything we can to ensure the procedure is performed in a safe and healthy environment.”
McClurkin said. “As I have noted several times before, Alabama has more health regulations in place to protect your cat or dog at a vet clinic than it does for a woman receiving an abortion, and that shameful disparity will change with passage of this bill.”
The bill was carried by Senator Scott Beason (R) from Gardendale in the Senate and was supported by Alabama Governor Robert Bentley (R) who is expected to sign the landmark legislation. The abortion clinics are expected to sue to attempt to block implementation of this law.
