Louisiana 2017 Regular Session

Louisiana Senate Bill SB128

Introduced
3/30/17  
Introduced
3/30/17  
Refer
3/30/17  
Refer
3/30/17  
Refer
4/10/17  
Refer
4/10/17  
Report Pass
4/25/17  
Engrossed
5/2/17  
Engrossed
5/2/17  
Refer
5/3/17  
Refer
5/3/17  
Report Pass
5/23/17  
Report Pass
5/23/17  
Enrolled
6/4/17  
Enrolled
6/4/17  
Chaptered
6/14/17  
Chaptered
6/14/17  
Passed
6/14/17  

Caption

Prohibits cutting, resection, excision, harvesting, or removal of a body part, organ, or tissue of an aborted unborn child for sale, commerce, transport, research, or profit. (gov sig)

Impact

The enactment of SB128 will impact state laws related to the treatment and management of aborted fetal remains. By firmly establishing penalties for the commercial use of fetal tissue, the bill reinforces moral and ethical standards pertaining to what proponents describe as the sanctity of life. It effectively limits the avenues available for research and commercial activities involving fetal tissues, potentially affecting scientific and medical research initiatives that utilize such materials.

Summary

Senate Bill 128 seeks to prohibit the cutting, resection, excision, harvesting, or removal of any body part, organ, or tissue from an aborted unborn child for purposes of sale, commerce, transport, research, or profit. The bill specifies actions that are prohibited after an induced abortion has been completed and outlines clear penalties for violations, including significant prison time and fines. This legislative move aligns with similar national trends concerning fetal tissue and organ donation regulations.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB128 reflects a strong alignment among lawmakers with conservative values, particularly in the context of reproductive rights and moral governance. Supporters applaud the bill as a necessary measure to protect unborn children and maintain ethical standards in medical practice. Conversely, some critics express concerns that such a bill could hinder beneficial research and infringe upon scientific exploration, initiating a debate about balancing ethics with the needs of medical science.

Contention

Notable points of contention center around the limitations imposed on fetal tissue utilization for research purposes. While supporters argue that the bill is essential for moral reasons, opponents highlight that reasonable regulations could facilitate important medical advancements. The legislation also delineates exceptions for certain transactions related to the final disposition of fetal remains, underscoring the complexity of regulating such a sensitive subject amid evolving societal values.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.