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News of the Day ... In Perspective03/27/2006Michigan bill targets coerced abortions The Michigan legislature is considering the Coercive Abortion Prevention Act (CAPA), which requires abortion practitioners to screen for coercion, inform a woman of her rights if she is being coerced, and wait 24 hours before performing the procedure (Tim Martin, Associated Press 3/15/06, mlive.com). Women who believe coercion has taken place will have the right to file a civil lawsuit. Supporters of the bill cite studies indicating that as many as four in 10 women seeking abortions are pressured to do so by a boyfriend or parent. Michigan is the first state to address this situation legislatively (http://www.family.org/cforum/news/a0039896.cfm). �The worst cases have been those involving not only verbal threats to withhold financial support and emotional support, but those where physical violence has been used against pregnant women,� stated Serrin Foster, president of Feminists for Life of America. The measure is opposed by Planned Parenthood Affiliates of Michigan. Director Sarah Scranton said: �It seems to me this is just erecting more barriers to a woman�s right to choose an abortion.� (LifeNews.com 3/19/06). Additional information:
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