Informed consent legislation advances in Oklahoma House

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- The Oklahoma House approves legislation that would require abortion providers to obtain a woman's informed consent before an abortion is performed.<br/><br/>The state House also

Thursday, March 3rd 2005, 6:43 am

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- The Oklahoma House approves legislation that would require abortion providers to obtain a woman's informed consent before an abortion is performed.

The state House also passed a measure Wednesday authorizing the prosecution of criminals who kill a fetus. The measure specifically exempts prosecution for the death of a fetus during a legal abortion to which the pregnant woman consented.

The informed consent measure -- House Bill 1543 -- passed 91-3 but may not pass as easily in the state Senate.

Del City state Representative Kevin Calvey says his bill requires abortion providers to give pregnant women information about the medical consequences of an abortion and notify them of the alternatives.

Oklahoma City state Representative Debbie Blackburn says while she doesn't like abortion, the bill could create obstacles for women who've been victims of incest and rape.

The other measure -- House Bill 1257 -- passed 97-to-0.