Governor Brad Henry Signs Abortion Measure Requiring Parental Consent

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- Democratic Governor Brad Henry signs a bill that would restrict teenagers' access to abortions.<br/><br/>Henry penned the measure without comment Tuesday. The Republican-sponsored

Wednesday, May 24th 2006, 6:30 am

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- Democratic Governor Brad Henry signs a bill that would restrict teenagers' access to abortions.

Henry penned the measure without comment Tuesday. The Republican-sponsored plan is similar to other bills that haven't survived in Senate committees in past years. Last week, the state Senate passed the measure 38-to-8.

Among other things, the bill requires the consent of one parent before a minor can receive an abortion and allows public funds to be sent to agencies that help pregnant women with anti-abortion counseling and support services.

Oklahomans for Life chairman Tony Lauinger says the bill will provide hope and health for pregnant women and their unborn children.

But Planned Parenthood lobbyist Keith Smith called Henry's action "highly unfortunate."

Smith says most teens who terminate a pregnancy include their parents in their decisions and the ones who don't have a reason not to.