Governor Sam Brownback has signed into law a bill requiring both parents to consent to an abortion for a girl under 18. The bill would only require one parent in some cases, such as divorced parents. Current law only requires that parents be notified. Last week Brownback signed legislation barring abortions after 21 weeks of development, stating that is when a fetus can feel pain. That bill does contain an exception for cases where the mother’s health is in danger. Brownback has called on lawmakers to send him legislation creating what he calls a culture of life.
Opponents of the bills have pointed to conflicting evidence on whether a fetus can feel pain at the 22nd week of development. They have also said that getting both parents to consent to a minor’s abortion could be impossible in an abusive household. The new abortion restrictions will take effect July 1st.