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House Passes Unborn Victims Act As the bill was brought before the House, bill sponsors Reps. Dale Folwell (R-Forsyth), Mark Hilton (R-Catawba), Edgar Starnes (R-Caldwell), and Fred Steen (R-Rowan) each voiced their support for the bill. In their introductory remarks, the bill sponsors highlighted the grave need for North Carolina to pass this law and join the 35 other states that already protect their unborn citizens. The bill sponsors also urged members to vote against any amendment that would weaken the bill. Four amendments were offered, but only one – a technical change – was accepted. The following proposed amendments were defeated:
Opponents of the bill argued that the bill was overly stringent and additionally, claimed that it diminished the importance of the adult victim, the mother. Supporters pointed out, however, that the bill was crafted only to mirror the federal law that is already in effect on federal lands in North Carolina, including the Blue Ridge Parkway and military bases. One representative pointed out that the law may actually help reduce domestic violence, as perpetrators would know that they may be charged for two crimes rather than just one. Opponents also took issue with the fact that the bill recognizes, for the first time in North Carolina law, that the life of the child is protected from the point of conception. A key supporter of the bill, House Majority Leader “Skip” Stam (R-Wake), did not contest that fact arguing, “If there’s two victims, there’s two victims.” On second reading, the bill passed with a bipartisan vote of 77-35. An objection to the bill’s third and final reading was made, but was later withdrawn, allowing the bill to pass third reading with a final vote of 74-35. The measure will now to the Senate for consideration. Related resources: Copyright © 2011. North Carolina Family Policy Council. All rights reserved.
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