Washington, D.C. — Today, Gov. Kasich vetoed the “Heartbeat Bill” in Ohio, which would have outlawed abortion after an unborn baby’s heartbeat could be detected, usually around 6 weeks of pregnancy. This would have been the most pro-life law in the nation. The legislature delivered to his desk the Heartbeat bill along with a 20 week pain-capable abortion ban. The Governor signed only the more moderate bill, vetoing the Heartbeat bill.
Penny Nance, CEO and President of Concerned Women for America (CWA) had this to say:
Gov. John Kasich’s decision to veto the heartbeat bill is extremely disappointing. We understand there are different approaches to advancing the pro-life cause, but many Ohioans worked extremely hard to pass this legislation.
Gov. Kasich should have signed this bill and let the judicial process play out. He tries to justify his decision by suggesting the legislation would not pass judicial scrutiny. However, it is not his role to act as a member of the judicial branch. It is a shame his veto casts a dark cloud over the victory of the 20-week ban in Ohio.
For an interview with Penny Nance contact Janae Stracke at jstracke@cwfa.org or 712-269-1724.