LITTLE ROCK, AR – A Senate committee says “yes” to banning abortion after 20 weeks in Arkansas.
Representative Andy Mayberry (R-Hensley) already got his bill through the House of Representatives, but the Senate proved to be a tougher challenge.
Mayberry changed his bill Wednesday to still allow abortions after 20-weeks in cases of rape and incest.
Roe v. Wade 40 years ago established 24 weeks as viability for an infant but Mayberry says modern scientific research indicates a fetus can feel pain at 20-weeks.
However, it was pointed out in committee that the research is controversial.
HB1037 advanced on a voice vote and moves to the Senate floor for a vote Monday.
Governor Mike Beebe tells FOX16 News he still has constitutional concerns with the legislation but has not decided whether he will use his veto power next week.
Representative Andy Mayberry (R-Hensley) already got his bill through the House of Representatives, but the Senate proved to be a tougher challenge.
Mayberry changed his bill Wednesday to still allow abortions after 20-weeks in cases of rape and incest.
Roe v. Wade 40 years ago established 24 weeks as viability for an infant but Mayberry says modern scientific research indicates a fetus can feel pain at 20-weeks.
However, it was pointed out in committee that the research is controversial.
HB1037 advanced on a voice vote and moves to the Senate floor for a vote Monday.
Governor Mike Beebe tells FOX16 News he still has constitutional concerns with the legislation but has not decided whether he will use his veto power next week.