Charles Van Zant abortion bill clears Criminal Justice subcommittee

A bill by Keystone Heights Republican state Rep. Charles Van Zant that would severely restrict abortion rights passed the Criminal Justice Subcommittee Monday.

The bill, among other things, “prohibits induced abortions; prohibits operation of facility for purpose of providing abortion services; prohibits termination of pregnancy unless specified conditions are met; requires informed consent; deletes exemption from requirement to view ultrasound for victims of rape, incest, domestic violence, or human trafficking; provides standard of care if fetus is viable; requires that fetal remains be disposed of according to specified standards; provides restrictions on use of state & federal funds for state exchanges that provide coverage for induced abortions & termination of pregnancies under certain conditions.”

The bill would ban all abortions in Florida unless the mother’s life is in danger. Operating an abortion clinic or performing an abortion in Florida could carry up to a 30-year sentence.

Van Zant noted that “conception” is the beginning of life, and that the state has a “compelling interest” in protecting the life of unborn citizens.

Van Zant lauded the “courage” of subcommittee chair Carlos Trujillo for hearing the bill.

The bill has two more House stops: the Justice Appropriations subcommittee, and the Health and Human Services committee.