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Richard Piatt ReportingFighting Roe vs. Wade could be an expensive fight, up to four million dollars. According to the Associated Press today, that's what an attempt to overturn Roe vs. Wade will cost Utah. The question is: Can the state afford it?
The House of Representatives could take up the abortion debate this week. Everyone agrees that the proposal to ban abortions will probably result in a court fight. Part of the debate is the cost.
Those in favor of the bill say the state can afford it this year, and argue a million and a half should cover it. But there are strong feelings on the other side that passing the bill will be divisive, and expensive. A lot of lawmakers would rather spend the money--whether it's a million or four million--on other things.
Sen. Scott McCoy, (R) Salt Lake City: "That kind of money, a million or two dollars, could be devoted to people who have real needs that could be better spent."
Rep. Paul Ray, (R) Clinton: "Were looking at 30 million for a soccer stadium in Sandy, so I don't know why we can't take a million and a half that's going to help bring rights back to the states and protect the unborn."
Meantime today, a group of women who support midwives showed up at the Capitol with their babies. They oppose a bill that puts greater regulation on midwives in Utah. The women support the option of at-home births. They're concerned additional regulation will make that option more difficult. Supporters say they're concerned about the health of the mother and the child.
They're two unrelated bills, but both affect women in profound ways. That abortion bill is creating a big stir, and it will probably be an emotional debate.
