PPAWI Statement on Wisconsin Republicans Propose Bill on Abortion Ban Exceptions
For Immediate Release: March 16, 2023
Today, Republicans who control the Wisconsin Legislature are introducing a bill that would create rape and incest exceptions to the state’s 1849 abortion ban.
Statement from Tanya Atkinson, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood Advocates of WI
“This bill is not about protecting survivors. Rape and incest exceptions to abortion bans are in no way centered on what survivors need, and do not provide them meaningful access or support.
“This bill is simply a covert way for legislative leadership to enshrine the 1849 criminal abortion ban and take away Wisconsinites’ ability to make their own health care decisions. It’s taking away freedoms in compromise’s clothing. This is a political stunt to distract from the Republicans’ unpopular record on abortion and the unpopular position of the conservative Supreme Court candidate who is backed by extreme anti-abortion groups. Even more, it's an attempt to undermine the pending lawsuit challenging the enforceability of the criminal abortion ban – a case they know is likely to make its way to the Wisconsin Supreme Court.
“Everyone should have the freedom to safely choose when and if they want to become a parent and to raise their children in safe and sustainable communities. This is why we must repeal, not amend, the 173-year-old abortion ban. We need to protect reproductive freedom and ultimately codify Roe into law.
“The results of recent elections made it clear that an overwhelming majority of Wisconsinites want to restore their ability to make their own health care decisions and repeal the criminal abortion ban. This bill is not a reflection of what the people of Wisconsin want and deserve. It is time that people in positions of power reflect the values of Wisconsinites and act in ways that protect and promote the health, safety and bodily autonomy of all people. “
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Planned Parenthood Advocates of Wisconsin (PPAWI) is the advocacy arm of Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin. PPAWI engages in legislative and educational activity and works to elect candidates to office that support these goals.