August 12, 2003
Sept. 10 pro-life rally set for the Capitol
JEFFERSON CITY – Missouri Right to Life has called on Missouri Baptists to throw their support behind an attempt to override Gov. Bob Holden’s veto of the Women’s Right to Know Act on Wednesday, Sept. 10.
"Pro-life people need to fill the Capitol, the Capitol lawn and galleries," said Susan Klein, a Missouri Baptist and chief lobbyist for the political action organization. "It is important for legislators to see that there is strong support for this piece of legislation."
Right to Life promoters are hoping at least 6,000 people will come to the state Capitol that day to encourage pro-life lawmakers to strike down the governor’s veto.
House Bill 156 requires that a woman meet with a doctor to discuss her medical condition and have at least 24 hours to reflect on what she learns before the abortion is performed. Testimony generated by Right to Life has shown that abortions are being performed in Missouri without providing a woman a consultation with a physician before the procedure begins.
The legislation was approved by both the Missouri House and Senate, but was vetoed by Holden. The Missouri Constitution mandates a veto session each year, giving lawmakers an opportunity to override bills vetoed by the governor.
"This law could cut abortions in Missouri by up to one-half," Klein said. "This has been proven by the decrease in abortions in other states that have passed similar laws. Women would be informed and would take the time to reflect on the medical aspects of abortion."
Plans for the Sept. 10 rally calls for music, prayer and speakers on the Capitol lawn. Rally day registration booths will be set up on the east and west Capitol steps. Missouri Right to Life has also reserved all space in the third floor Capitol rotunda area for pro-life booths.
"On three different occasions in 2003, there was testimony in the Missouri Legislature from women who have had abortions," Klein said. "None of them were offered the chance to see a doctor before the procedure began, and all suffered adverse emotional health consequences. Some even had physical consequences.
"They were not provided full information about what was going on or what the possible repercussions could be. These women represent what has happened to numerous women in Missouri.
"Missouri Baptists need to make certain that a woman has the right to know what abortion does to her and her baby."