No On 85: Beyond the Issue of Choice

Prop 85 would make it illegal for a woman under the age of 18 to get an abortion without the consent of a parent of a legal guardian. It is supported by a slate of “pro-life” supporters from across the country, including Evangelicals for Social Action, The Traditional Values Coalition, and Right to Life of Central California. If this sounds familiar, you’re probably on the right track: virtually the same measure was on last year’s ballot, then called “Proposition 73.” The major difference between 73 and 85 is that it no longer changes the definition of abortion in the California Constitution.

But do not be fooled: this policy is as misguided as ever. It is built upon the desire of a few to chip away at Roe v. Wade, and capitalizes the common distrust adults have of young people to achieve their end. A common concern is that young people are not mature enough to make such a decision—adults distrust the choices youth make. But adults need to look within themselves, and decide if at 16 they could understand whether or not they could have and support a child. Every adult I have ever posed this question to affirmed that they could have made that choice themselves. The same is true for today’s youth as well.

Read More
http://www.beyondchron.org/news/index.php?itemid=3787#more