Rep. Barton supports bill to protect unborn

Congressman Joe Barton.

WASHINGTON — Rep. Joe Barton (R-Ennis/Arlington) released the following statement Wednesday after voting for H.R. 36, the "Pain Capable Unborn Child Protection Act." The legislation passed the House by a bipartisan vote of 242 – 184.

"Growing scientific evidence shows that unborn children can feel pain at 20 weeks of fetal age and beyond. These aren’t just fetuses. These are babies just like the ones we see in Neonatal Intensive Care Units in hospitals in our area struggling for life, needing love.

"This bill will ban abortions in the United States after the 20 week threshold. The only exceptions are when the life of the mother is in danger or in cases of rape and incest.

"This bill has the overwhelming support of the American people. Now that the House has acted, the Senate should follow our lead.

"It won’t end all abortion, but it will prevent future suffering and death.

"I am pro-life because I believe that all life is precious and should be respected and I back that up with my vote. As a lawmaker, I believe I have a constitutional and moral obligation to protect those who do not have the power to protect themselves. I will continue to fight in Congress for the unborn."