Full Senate approves legislation giving greater protection to lives of unborn babies beginning at conception

OKLAHOMA CITY – The full Senate has given its approval to House Bill 4327, a measure that would effectively ban nearly all abortions beginning at conception.  Sen. Julie Daniels, R-Bartlesville, is Senate principal author of the measure.

HB 4327 would authorize individuals to take civil action against those who perform abortions or help a person obtain an abortion.  The woman herself could not be sued. The bill contains exceptions for abortions performed to save the life of the mother in a medical emergency.  It also provides an exception in cases of rape or incest reported to law enforcement.

“This bill will save many innocent lives by acting as a deterrent to those who perform abortions,” Daniels said.  “And we have an obligation to provide care and resources to women experiencing a crisis pregnancy.  My goal is to see more women bring their babies into the world and experience the joy of loving and nourishing their child.”

Rep. Wendi Stearman, R-Collinsville, is the House principal author. 

"This bill is about valuing life given by God," Stearman said. "It's important we protect the life of unborn babies from the moment they are conceived. While this bill may not completely stop abortion in our state, it will compel compliance by abortion providers as they will not be willing to face the statutory damages spelled out in this legislation. I'm grateful for its passage in the Senate and expect it soon to become law."

HB 4327 now returns to the House for further consideration.

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For more information, contact: 

Sen. Julie Daniels at 405-521-5634 or email Julie.Daniels@oksenate.gov.

Rep. Wendi Stearman at 405-557-7358 or email Wendi.Stearman@okhouse.gov.