Category Archives: A.1748

NY Assembly Passes Bills to Expand Abortion, Provide “Free” Contraceptive Coverage

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Last night, the NY State Assembly passed two pro-abortion bills:

A. 1748, which could increase late-term abortions in the state, empower non-doctors to perform abortions, eliminate protections against unwanted abortions, and even jeopardize live-born children who survive abortion attempts. This passed by a vote of 97-49.  Voting FOR this bill: Ken Zebrowski (AD 96), Ellen Jaffe (AD 97) and Jim Skoufis (AD 99). A prolife vote AGAINST it was cast by Karl Brabenec (AD 98).

A. 1378, which requires insurance companies to provide “cost-free” contraceptive coverage, including potentially abortifacient drugs like the morning-after pill. Passed by a vote of 103-43. Again, voting FOR this bill: Ken Zebrowski (AD 96), Ellen Jaffe (AD 97) and Jim Skoufis (AD 99). A prolife vote AGAINST it was cast by Karl Brabenec (AD 98).

Also, keep in mind that “cost-free” coverage is not really free. Pharmaceutical companies were not giving away their contraceptive products last time we checked. Increased premiums from the insurance companies will probably cover the expense, and that could mean your money.

This bill left in place a provision from an earlier law whereby a “religious employer” may request a healthcare contract for its employees without coverage for these drugs and devices. That will work for organizations like churches, according to the law’s definition of what a “religious employer” is. Unfortunately, it does not protect the private employer who because of his religious beliefs opposes abortion or contraception.

Both these bills are versions of similar legislation, which the Democratic majority in the Assembly has been pushing through on a party-line vote each year. Fortunately, it never reached the floor of the Senate, where the Republicans have a slim majority — one vote this year. We must work to make sure these bills do not become law in New York.

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A.1748 — New Abortion Expansion Bill Introduced in NYS Assembly

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A new bill to expand abortion in New York (A.1748)  was introduced in the state Assembly and referred to the Health Committee on Jan. 12. Don’t be fooled by its supporters saying  they only want to “update” New York law to make it consistent with Roe v. Wade. This is far worse.

And before we get any further, you should know that Jim Skoufis, the Rockland assembly person representing Stony Point, is a co-sponsor of this bill. 

There’s an excellent, very readable discussion of the implications of A.1748 here (from the New York State Catholic Conference).

In short, it could lead to more third-trimester abortions, encourage late-term abortionists to set up in New York, empower non-doctors to perform abortions, force doctors and nurses stop participate in abortions, eliminate prosecution of criminal charges for violent attacks against unborn children, repeal legal protection for babies who survive abortions, and encourage abortion at all stages.

This bill has been fast-tracked and could be voted on at any time. Use this  link to send a pre-written email opposing this legislation directly to your Assembly representative.  It will only take a minute. Please do it today. We have to speak up!