Pelosi Statement on President Signing Criminal Abortion Procedure Ban

November 5, 2003

Washington, D.C. -- House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today on President Bush’s signing legislation that criminalizes so-called “partial birth” abortions:

“Today, President Bush became the first President in history to sign a law banning a safe and medically-accepted medical procedure.

“By signing this bill, President Bush continues his assault on a woman’s right to make private medical decisions. He is putting women’s health in serious danger by signing a bill that fails to contain an exception for what is best for the health of a woman -- even though the Supreme Court said in Stenberg v. Carhart that a health exception is constitutionally required.

“Politicians should not be making medical decisions. This is an excruciating decision for a woman, but she, in consultation with her family, her doctor, and her clergy, is the best qualified to make it. This law goes beyond policy and into medical procedures.

“Instead of banning medically-safe procedures, Congress should focus on providing a broad range of reproductive options for women, including family planning, contraception, and healthy childbearing.

“I am disappointed by this attack on reproductive health care and this violation of women’s privacy. I will continue to fight in Congress for a woman’s right to choose.”

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