Testimony Opposing S. 323: Protecting Women and Upholding Life in South Carolina

Emily Hoegler, Policy Counsel at Americans United for Life (AUL), submitted written testimony opposing S. 323, the Unborn Children Protection Act, before the South Carolina Senate Medical Affairs Committee. While acknowledging that the bill protects life from its earliest stages, she argues that it problematically removes existing protections under South Carolina Code Annotated § 44-41-670, which exempts women from prosecution for undergoing abortions. AUL’s mission is to advocate for a world where everyone is welcomed and protected in law, and she contends that prosecuting women for abortion contradicts the nation’s historical and traditional approach to abortion law.

Hoegler’s testimony also explains that many women who get abortions don’t fully choose to do so. They often face pressure from partners, abusers, or financial problems. Studies show that many women feel forced into abortions or regret them later due to a lack of emotional and financial support. Punishing women won’t fix these problems or lower abortion rates—it might just hurt women more. Hoegler asks the committee to vote against S. 323 and focus on laws that protect both unborn babies and women’s health.

South Carolina should keep protecting women from punishment while working on other ways to support life and help pregnant women.

Read the full testimony below:

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