The bishops of Florida released a statement Friday commending the state’s legislative leaders for legislation restricting abortions once a child has reached viability.
The Senate approved House Bill 1047 on Friday and it now awaits the governor’s signature.
“We are called to care for life from its earliest stages, recognizing and respecting the sacredness of what God has created. Restricting abortion from the point of viability is a significant improvement for Florida. The bill recognizes the right to life of children who can survive outside of the womb,” the statement affirmed.
As a result of advances in medicine, technology, and research, children may reach viability at earlier stages of development, the bishops noted.
While Florida law currently limits abortions in the third trimester, there are children who have reached viability during the second trimester.
The bill allows exceptions, with certification by two physicians, only in cases where the mother’s life is in danger or she is at risk for serious physical injury. It does not include exceptions for the mother’s emotional health.
