Coos Bay World: Vote no on 43

Editorial
November 4, 2006

Oregonians who defend a woman's right to choose will want to vote no on Measure 43, the so-called parental notification law.

No surprise there.

But here is a surprise: People who deplore abortion also will want to vote no on this measure. That's how badly flawed it is.

Some people think it will require parental permission for 15-, 16- and 17-year-old girls to have abortions.

It won't.

Some people think the bill will make an exception for victims of rape or incest.

It won't.

What it will do is create risks for teenage girls who will choose to postpone pregnancy tests. It will create risks for those girls who postponed care early on rather than risk parental notification and, who in desperation, seek late-term abortions. Doctors and nurses could be sued or lose their licenses if, for any reason - if the notification is refused or not received by a parent.

Some people think that, by passing Measure 43, we can help families communicate. They think such a law would encourage teenagers to talk to their parents. Some think Measure 43 will turn Oregon into a “Father Knows Best” society.

It won't.

But beyond all this, here's the biggest surprise about Measure 43:

Some people believe passing the bill will prevent 15-year-old girls from having abortions.

It won't.

http://www.theworldlink.com/articles/2006/11/06/opinion/editorial/edit01110406.txt