Bilirakis Takes A Stand for Life

Washington, DC: Earlier today, Congressman Gus Bilirakis spoke on the House Floor about the need to defend life. His speech was delivered on the same day the United States Supreme Court heard opening arguments in the case of Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization. This Supreme Court case, which reflects the most significant legal challenge on the issue of abortion since Roe vs. Wade, has the ability to set new precedent with regard to individual states' abilities to protect unborn children. It will also better establish the rights states have to legislate on the matter of abortion. In the years following Roe vs. Wade, more than 60 million unborn children have lost their lives to abortion. During that time, medical advances have also made remarkable strides and offer new insight into the stages of human development.

"As this landmark case progresses, I am mindful that modern science confirms that every unborn child is a human life," said Congressman Bilirakis. "As early as 5 weeks, unborn babies have a heartbeat, and the brain and spinal cord are developing. By week 10, babies have arms and legs, fingers, and toes. They can kick and jump if startled. At week 15, babies have fully developed hearts that pump 26 quarts of blood per day. They can taste and make facial expressions. We know at this stage, they yawn, hiccup, swallow, and suck their thumbs. During this time period, painful procedures trigger a hormonal stress response. And, due to advances in technology, an unborn child is now viable outside the womb at 22 weeks or earlier. Federal abortion laws are stuck in the past. Now that we have the benefit of scientific knowledge on the stages of human development, our laws must reflect these realities and be realigned to protect the unborn!"

At the center of this legal battle is a Mississippi law passed in 2018 which limits abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy. There are statutory exceptions to save the life and preserve the physical health of the mother, or in cases of severe fetal abnormality. The law was passed by overwhelming majorities in the state legislature and signed by then-Governor Phil Bryant. In a direct challenge to Roe v. Wade and Planned Parenthood v. Casey, the Supreme Court announced in May 2021 it would review the Mississippi law and will specifically consider the question of whether or not all pre-viability bans on abortion are unconstitutional. It is important to note that the United States is one of only four countries that allows abortion-on-demand throughout all nine months of pregnancy. In fact, more than 75% of countries throughout the world do not permit elective abortion past the 12^th week of gestation.

"The Mississippi law is designed to protect unborn children as well as the health and well-being of women," said Congressman Bilirakis. "It should not be forgotten that mothers who obtain abortions often experience physical and emotional trauma. We must empower women by promoting a culture of life and ensuring that pregnant mothers have access to the quality medical care and support needed to deliver healthy babies."