Crapo: Partial Birth Abortion Not Often Used

Washington, DC - Idaho Senator Mike Crapo said a 64-34 Senate vote today in favor of a partial birth abortion bill shows the procedure is not one most Americans can tolerate. Even so, he noted the legislation expected to be signed by President Bush contains provisions to allow the procedure to protect the life of the mother. "Passage of this legislation is an important step because this procedure is rarely, if ever, needed,â?? Crapo said. â??Medical experts agree that a partial birth abortion is rarely necessary for health purposes. This measure does authorize the procedure if the life of the mother requires it. The procedure of literally having a baby partially born and then killing it is not a procedure that we in this country can or should tolerate.â??The Partial Birth Abortion Ban Act of 2003 would amend federal criminal code to prohibit physicians or others from knowingly performing partial birth abortions, except when necessary to save the life of a mother that is endangered by a physical disorder, illness, or injury. Partial birth abortions are generally defined in the bill as cases where the person performing the abortion deliberately and intentionally delivers a living fetus partially outside the motherâ??s body before killing it. The measure has already passed in the U.S. House.# # #FOR INTERESTED MEDIA: A radio actuality is available by calling 1-800-545-1267. Press 327 at any time during or after the greeting and instructions. If you encounter any difficulties with the system, please contact Susan Wheeler at the above number. You can also access the actuality through the Internet at http://crapo.senate.gov or www.senate.gov/src/radio/crapo.