Proposal to ban abortion in Kansas splits pro-life groups
A group of abortion opponents is pushing for a state constitutional amendment banning the procedure in Kansas.
The chairman of a Valley Center, Kan., organization said Friday it has support from 25 House members for a bill that would let voters decide whether to ban abortion in the state.
“The Kansas Bill of Rights recognizes that all men are possessed of equal and inalienable natural rights, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,” the group, Personhood Kansas, posted on its website Friday. “This amendment will ensure that — regardless of one’s age — these rights are not denied to any person.”
The group’s leader said the goal wasn’t to force a showdown over the landmark Roe v. Wade decision that legalized abortion, although he said their amendment, if successful, would likely end up in court.
Bruce Garren maintained the public wants a voice on the issue and he has collected thousands of petition signatures to aid the cause with lawmakers.
“Our goal is to end abortion in Kansas,” Garren said. “I am not sure they know there are people out there who want this on the ballot.”
The bill is expected to be introduced by state Rep. Randy Garber, a Sabetha Republican who was first elected in 2010 and has supported other restrictions on abortion.