July 18, 2013 (LifeSiteNews.com) – Battle-weary pro-life leaders, who fought long and hard against fierce opposition to pass Texas’ late-term abortion ban, applauded Texas Gov. Rick Perry for signing the legislation into law today.
“We commend Governor Perry for leading for life once again,” said Elizabeth Graham of Texas Right to Life. “The majority of Texans support limits to abortion, and we are pleased that legislators responded to their constituents and enacted this important piece of legislation that protects unborn children in Texas.”
The support of Gov. Perry, who is one of the few politicians on the national scene who opposes any exceptions for abortion, was instrumental in the passage of the law. After the first version of the bill was successfully filibustered by Sen. Wendy Davis and a mob of shouting pro-abortion activists, Gov. Perry called a second special session to ensure passage of the abortion bill.
“This is simply too important of a cause to allow the unruly actions of a few to stand in its way,” he told attendees at the National Right to Life Convention, describing the actions of abortion activists as “mob tactics.”
In addition to banning abortion after 20 weeks, the law requires abortion facilities to meet the same safety standards as other ambulatory surgical centers, and requires abortionists to have admitting privileges at local hospitals.
Abortion activists have claimed that the law could shut down dozens of abortion clinics.
“Rick Perry is a brave man for standing up to the mob tactics of the abortion lobby and has earned the respect of pro-life women and men across the country,” said Ashley McGuire, Senior Fellow with The Catholic Association. “We hope other states as well as the federal government follow Texas' lead in standing up for women and babies.”
“Governor Rick Perry and the Texas legislature have done what they were elected to do, that is, safeguard the well-being of Texans,” said Fr. Frank Pavone of Priests for Life.
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“The new law Governor Perry signs today will advance the protection of women from the unscrupulous practices of abortionists, and the protection of children from the deadly weapons of those same abortionists. Those who were so vociferous in their opposition to this law are on the wrong side of morality and of history.”
Pavone also said that the law will help pro-life activists to expose the activities of abortionists like Douglas Karpen, whom former employees have accused of Gosnell-like crimes, including routinely killing babies born alive.
“This is a great day for the pre-born and their mothers in Texas and across America,” said Alexa Coombs, the Director of External Relations for Students for Life of America. “It is just one small step but, Roe, we're coming for you – state by state, bill by bill, abortion will be abolished in America in this lifetime!”
SFLA had sent a busload of students to Texas to be present during the debate. Their presence made national news after the local YMCA reneged on an agreement to provide the students with shower facilities after coming under pressure from abortion activists.
Tony Perkins of the Family Research Council also welcomed the approval of the law. “Today we welcome Texas into the proud coalition of states moving to defend defenseless, unborn children,” he said. “Under Governor Perry's leadership, the state has ensured that scientific advancement and health concerns govern the state, and not the profit margins of abortionists.
“We applaud the brave state leaders – including Governor Perry – who refuse to back down from defending human dignity, even in the face of intense pressure and harassment.”