Protesters on both sides of the abortion debate crowded the Georgia Capitol on Wednesday as lawmakers held a hearing on a bill that would criminalize most abortions from the point of fertilization. Though the proposal will not advance this year due to missed legislative deadlines, the hearing allowed supporters and opponents to voice their views.
Sponsored by Rep. Emory Dunahoo (R-Gillsville), the bill expands Georgia’s “personhood” law and would classify most abortions as homicide. It allows limited exceptions, such as in life-threatening emergencies or miscarriages, but critics argue doctors would be too afraid to provide needed care.
Democratic Rep. Shea Roberts shared a personal story of needing an abortion to survive a pregnancy complication. Physicians warned the bill could worsen Georgia’s maternal mortality rates and criminalize in vitro fertilization, risking fertility clinic closures.
Religious voices were divided, with some arguing the bill doesn’t go far enough and others opposing its criminal provisions.
The bill follows recent bipartisan efforts in Georgia’s House to protect access to IVF.
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