Thousands turn out for and against abortion ban in Indianapolis – WLKY Louisville

Thousands of activists turned out Monday in Indianapolis to support and oppose a statewide ban on abortions.The Indiana General Assembly began its special session with a four-hour hearing that is set to resume Tuesday. As members of the public testified for and against a ban, the shouts of activists inside the Capitol could often be heard inside the Senate chambers."Banning abortion, even with exceptions, is a direct violation of the First Amendment's guarantee of religious liberty, that ensures that laws and government practice neither promote religion no interfere with its free exercise," said Rabbi Aaron Spiegel, speaking against Senate Bill 1.The legislation allows exceptions for abortions in the cases of rape, incest, or in the case of a "substantial permanent impairment of the life of the pregnant woman."That exception angered many abortion opponents, who oppose the bill because they want more restrictions."This language is so unclear, that it could be expanded to any medical condition, including mental health," said Amy Rainey, an abortion opponent. "The language does not even require a physician to document the rational or receive approval or oversight from anyone."Indiana state lawmakers are considering other legislation.Senate Bill 2 would provide $45 million for pregnancy planning, maternal health and other related services.Senate Bill 3 would provide inflation relief through various measures, such as temporarily suspending the tax on utility services and capping gasoline taxes.

Thousands of activists turned out Monday in Indianapolis to support and oppose a statewide ban on abortions.

The Indiana General Assembly began its special session with a four-hour hearing that is set to resume Tuesday. As members of the public testified for and against a ban, the shouts of activists inside the Capitol could often be heard inside the Senate chambers.

"Banning abortion, even with exceptions, is a direct violation of the First Amendment's guarantee of religious liberty, that ensures that laws and government practice neither promote religion no interfere with its free exercise," said Rabbi Aaron Spiegel, speaking against Senate Bill 1.

The legislation allows exceptions for abortions in the cases of rape, incest, or in the case of a "substantial permanent impairment of the life of the pregnant woman."

That exception angered many abortion opponents, who oppose the bill because they want more restrictions.

"This language is so unclear, that it could be expanded to any medical condition, including mental health," said Amy Rainey, an abortion opponent. "The language does not even require a physician to document the rational or receive approval or oversight from anyone."

Indiana state lawmakers are considering other legislation.

Senate Bill 2 would provide $45 million for pregnancy planning, maternal health and other related services.

Senate Bill 3 would provide inflation relief through various measures, such as temporarily suspending the tax on utility services and capping gasoline taxes.

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Thousands turn out for and against abortion ban in Indianapolis - WLKY Louisville