Benton Times

Congressman Steve Womack has expressed his support for the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act, also known as H.R. 21. The bill, which he cosponsored, aims to ensure that infants born alive after an attempted abortion receive the same medical care as any other newborn.

Womack stated, “Life is a sacred gift worth protecting. Babies who’ve suffered from an attempted abortion must receive the highest standard of care to have a chance at survival after birth. It’s our moral responsibility. This bill requires healthcare practitioners to administer lifesaving medical care to all babies, regardless of the circumstance. I will continue to fight to protect the vulnerable and the fundamental right to life.”

The legislation mandates that healthcare professionals present at live births following abortions or attempted abortions must provide necessary care and transport the child to a hospital immediately afterward. Failure to comply could lead to criminal penalties, including fines and imprisonment for up to five years.

Additionally, if a healthcare practitioner intentionally harms or attempts harm on an abortion survivor, they may face murder charges. The bill also protects mothers from prosecution and allows them to pursue civil action against non-compliant healthcare providers.