Shimkus Votes to End Abortion After 20 Weeks

Local Congressman John Shimkus voted for the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act in the US House.

"As modern science advances, we are gaining a better understanding of childhood development from conception to birth," Shimkus noted.  "Scientists are now finding that by 20 weeks after conception, babies can experience pain.

"The Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act will provide national protection to unborn children who are capable of feeling pain and will penalize those who perform abortions after 20 weeks," Shimkus added.  "New scientific evidence about pre-natal development and the Dr. Kermit Gosnel trial compels us to examine this issue."

Exemptions exist for pregnancies that are a result of rape or incest against a minor if those were reported to authorities and for the physical life of the pregnant woman.

The measure passed the House but is unlikely to be brought up for a vote in the Senate.