[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 117 (Thursday, August 2, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1392]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PAIN-CAPABLE UNBORN CHILD PROTECTION ACT

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                               speech of

                         HON. CHRIS VAN HOLLEN

                              of maryland

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 31, 2012

  Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposition to H.R. 3803, 
which unfairly targets the District of Columbia for a prohibition on 
abortions after 20 weeks, with no exception to protect a woman's 
health. This bill is simply another in a long line of attempts by House 
GOP to undermine a woman's fundamental right to choose.
  H.R. 3803 directly contradicts Roe v. Wade by prohibiting pre-
viability abortions and making no exception to protect a woman's 
health. The narrow exception in this bill that allows for an abortion 
when it's necessary to save a woman's life is completely inadequate. 
H.R. 3803 does not include an exception for abortions that would 
prevent severe harm to a woman's health, or for survivors of incest or 
rape.
  Finally, the nature of this legislation derides the democratic 
process by empowering politicians to make health decisions for citizens 
that they do not represent. The singling out of District citizens--who 
have never had the opportunity to elect a voting Member of this body--
is a cynical move that ignores their wishes and undermines the locally 
elected City Council and Mayor. I urge my colleagues to oppose this 
misguided legislation.

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