Cornhusker State News

Nebraska has joined a number of other conservative states that have implemented abortion restrictions following the Supreme Court's Dobbs decision, a move that is being praised by a prominent pro-life group.

Nebraska's "Let Them Grow Act," which was signed into law by Republican Gov. Jim Pillen on May 22, bans most abortions past 12 weeks. The 12-week mark is considered a milestone in the pregnancy, as some studies have found it's a point when an unborn baby can feel pain. 

“Nebraska has taken a significant step forward for life. Three hundred lives will be protected each year through the Let Them Grow Act. Each of these children will bless countless others by being a son or daughter, grandchild, friend, classmate and colleague, and Nebraska will be better off through the lives they will be allowed to live," said Adam Schwend, Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America's Western Regional Director, in a May 22 press release. “Gov. Pillen is a bold pro-life leader who does not waver in the face of adversity or vocal minority opposition. We thank the Governor and the 33 legislators who showed the resolve to get this legislation to the finish line.” 

The bill passed the state Senate with a 33-15 vote, with one excused vote, according to the Nebraska Legislature.

SBA Pro-Life America pointed out exceptions to the 12-week ban on abortions which include rape, incest, and life of the mother. 

A report by the Charlotte Lozier Institute titled "12 Facts at 12 Weeks" says that by the three-month mark in a pregnancy, the baby's heart beats more than 10 million times and all of its major organs have developed. The study also found that touch and pain receptors start forming around the 7-week mark, so by week 12 the unborn baby can feel pain. 

According to a June 2022 Harvard-Harris Poll, 72% of voters have said they would limit abortions by no later than 15 weeks. This included 75% of women, 70% of Independents, and 60% of Democrats

State Sen. Joni Albrecht (R-District 17) had been a staunch supporter of the legislation. 

"Every human being has a right to Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness," Albrecht said in a press release. "I look forward to the day when every child is protected from conception from elective abortions in the State of Nebraska."

The North Carolina legislature recently took action to override Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper's veto of similar legislation which would restrict abortions beyond 12 weeks in that state, the Associated Press reported.