Governor, Legislators, and Grassroots Advocates Join to Mark Enactment
To the cheers of onlookers, Governor Bill Haslam added his signature on Wednesday to long-sought pro-life policies during a ceremonial bill signing at Nashville's War Memorial Auditorium. Bills signed by Haslam include informed consent provisions for women and girls considering abortion, a 48-hour waiting period, and a requirement that abortion facilities in the state be inspected and licensed.
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The bills were overwhelmingly passed in both the state House and state Senate and take effect on July 1, 2015. Following voter approval of Amendment 1 last year, pro-life legislators wasted little time in fulfilling promises of abortion reform in the state. Sponsors of the legislation thanked grassroots leaders on Wednesday for their work to pass the pro-life Amendment. "Thank you to each of you and many others who worked tirelessly to see Amendment 1 passed," said Rep. Susan Lynn of Mount Juliet. "Without you, we could not be here today." Long-time pro-life champion Senator Mae Beavers expressed her appreciation for the opportunity to serve the unborn and Tennessee's pro-life movement. "It has been an honor to carry these bills and to stand up for the weak and defenseless in our state." |
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Rep. Matthew Hill echoed the others and thanked those gathered. "For all the hard work, presentations, flyers, signs, and more, thank you to the grassroots for making the Amendment and these bills a reality. Women, children and families are going to be served and saved because of your sacrifice." |