U.S. Rep. Keith Self Proudly Serving Texa's 3rd District | Official U.S. House headshot
Today, Congressmen Keith Self and Andy Biggs introduced a new legislative proposal aimed at enhancing the enforcement of the Partial Birth Abortion Ban Act of 2003. The proposed legislation, known as the Ensuring Justice for Victims of Partial-Birth Abortion Act, is backed by organizations including Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, National Right to Life, and March for Life Action.
The initiative to strengthen enforcement comes after an incident involving five aborted babies, referred to as the "DC-Five," found outside a Washington abortion facility. Evidence suggested that at least one of these babies was subjected to a partial-birth abortion. Instead of investigating this incident immediately, authorities arrested a woman who discovered the bodies.
On March 14, 2024, Congressman Self urged DC’s Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Francisco J. Diaz to conduct an independent investigation into the deaths. Despite repeated requests from various Members of Congress, no action was taken by DC authorities.
“The DC-Five were innocent babies weeks from birth before their lives were brutally and barbarically snuffed out,” stated Congressman Self. He expressed hope that the bill would ensure enforcement of existing laws under President Trump's pro-life agenda.
The proposed bill directs the U.S. Attorney General to investigate violations of the PBABA and report findings to Congress. Additionally, it requires healthcare practitioners aware of such violations to report them and mandates an annual Department of Justice report on PBABA enforcement efforts. The Government Accountability Office is also tasked with identifying ways to improve law enforcement related to this issue.
“In 2003, Congress enacted the Partial-Birth Abortion Ban Act to end the gruesome and inhumane practice of partial-birth abortion," said Hon. Marilyn Musgrave from Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America. She emphasized that the new act seeks justice for victims like those harmed in Washington.
Carol Tobias from National Right to Life highlighted that partial-birth abortions were banned by Congress in 2003 following advocacy led by then-Florida Congressman Charles Canady. She supports investigations into allegations that this procedure has been illegally conducted.
The bill has garnered support from several cosponsors including Representatives Robert Aderholt, Mary Miller, Doug LaMalfa, Daniel Webster, Randy K. Weber, Andy Harris, Riley Moore, Eric Burlison, Michael Guest, Andy Ogles, Brian Babin, and Mark Harris.
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