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Stauber Leads Legislation to Prohibit Abortions Based on Down Syndrome Diagnosis

October 30, 2019

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) helped introduce H.R. 4903, the Down Syndrome Discrimination by Abortion Prohibition Act, which will place a federal ban on abortions that are based on a Down syndrome diagnosis. Stauber joined Congressman Ron Estes (KS-04) and 30 other members of Congress in introducing this legislation.

Of this legislation, Stauber stated, "As the proud father of a child with Down syndrome, it absolutely breaks my heart to hear that some individuals choose to terminate their pregnancy when they learn that their child will have Down syndrome. I believe every life has value and should be protected, which is why I am proud to join Representative Estes in introducing this critical legislation."

Congressman Estes stated, "As October is recognized as Down Syndrome Awareness Month, I am happy to champion this bill to protect the unborn and the most vulnerable in our society. Individuals with Down syndrome enrich countless lives and communities and deserve the same protections and opportunities under federal law, beginning with the fundamental right to life. I look forward to working with my colleagues to pass this common-sense pro-life legislation."

Specifically, H.R. 4903 would make it illegal for a doctor to knowingly perform an abortion that's being sought because the baby has or may have Down syndrome. Mothers are barred from being prosecuted or held liable for any violation, ensuring that full responsibility will be placed on the doctor performing the abortion.

Background:

In the United States, over two thirds of unborn babies with Down syndrome are aborted.

Since arriving in Congress, Stauber has supported the disability community, most recently introducing H.R. 4095, the Family Care Act, which would help families with disabled dependents better afford necessary services and care.

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