[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 44 (Thursday, April 18, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E584]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      CHILD CUSTODY PROTECTION ACT

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                               speech of

                          HON. PHILIP M. CRANE

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 17, 2002

  Mr. CRANE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 476, the 
Child Custody Protection Act.
  This legislation makes it a federal crime to knowingly transport a 
minor across state lines with the intent that she obtain an abortion, 
in violation of the minor's home state parental consent or notification 
law. Under the measure, violations of this law would be punishable by a 
fine of up to $100,000 and one year in prison. Any parent or guardian 
who suffers legal harm from the violation of a parental notification 
law is allowed to seek civil action for damages.
  The bill includes an exception from prosecution, however, if the 
abortion is necessary to save the life of the minor. The bill also 
protects the minor from prosecution under its provisions. The measure 
allows individuals accused of violating this provision to defend 
themselves against civil and criminal actions by claiming that they 
believed the parents had been notified or had given their consent, as 
required by state law.
  By way of background, it is important to note that in many states it 
is illegal for a school nurse to dispense so much as an aspirin to a 
minor without parental consent. However, absent this legislation, 
minors can be brought across state lines without parental consent for 
the express purpose of obtaining an abortion. Over-the-counter aspirin 
requires parental notification, but abortion does not? Mr. Speaker, how 
can this be?
  In 1999, the House passed identical legislation by a vote of 270 to 
159; unfortunately, the measure was never considered by the other body, 
thus necessitating its reintroduction in the 107th Congress. I commend 
Chairman Sensenbrenner, Chairman Chabot, and Congresswoman Ros-Lehtinen 
for their work in crafting this urgent legislation, and I truly hope 
that my colleagues will Join me in voting for this legislation today. 
As such, I urge an ``aye'' vote on final passage.
  Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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