ACLU-TN Prepared to Sue Over “Fetal Cardiac Activity Bill”

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The American Civil Liberties Union of Tennessee announced today that it will file a lawsuit if the so-called “fetal cardiac activity bill” becomes law.

The legislation, HB 77/SB 1236, as amended, would prohibit abortions in Tennessee after fetal cardiac activity is detected, which can occur as early as six weeks into a pregnancy.

The measure passed out of the Tennessee General Assembly’s House Health Committee today.

The following can be attributed to Hedy Weinberg, ACLU-TN executive director:

“This dangerous bill bans abortions as early as six weeks into a pregnancy, when most women do not even know they are pregnant – which is tantamount to outlawing almost all abortions in Tennessee. A woman should be able to make decisions about what is best for her health and her family in consultation with her doctor and her loved ones, without politicians interfering or trying to force her hand. If this bill passes, the ACLU of Tennessee stands ready to file a lawsuit immediately.”