Abortion Ban Bill Passes in ND House | Video

Amanda Tetlak | 2/11/2011

Representatives approved anti-abortion legislation today. The bill not only bans abortion, but goes a step further and would ban the destruction of human embryos that are created when a woman`s egg is fertilized outside her body, known as in vitro fertilization.

The bill defines a human being in North Dakota to include the words: "At every stage of development."

Supporters of the bill say banning abortion preserves the dignity of human life.

Those in opposition had some questions about whether a mother would be protected if she had to abort the baby because of health reasons.

Others in opposition are concerned about the government interfering with a woman`s choice.

"The intention is not to risk the mother at the benefit of the unborn child," said Rep. Dan Ruby, R-Minot. "So I think we have it all covered here."

Rep. Kathy Hawken R-Fargo, said: "We are deciding what is ok for a single person. I don`t believe that is our role."

The bill passed overwhelmingly, 68 to 25. It goes to the Senate next.

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