WV Senate: Third Reading of Abortion Bill Slated for One O'Clock Today

July 29, 2022

Mountaineer News

Women's Health

CHARLESTON, WV - Lawmakers are expected to discuss proposed amendments and debate contentious issues that have already sparked protests at the Capitol and an emotionally charged public hearing with dozens of speakers today (July 29th) at 1:00pm.

On Wednesday, the West Virginia House of Delegates approved the abortion banning bill after OK'ing amendments that would allow exceptions for rape and incest up to 14 weeks.

Delegates approved the overall bill by a vote of 69 to 23.

The amendments allowing exceptions for rape and incest were approved by delegates by a vote of 46 to 43.

The bill approved by the House would be effective upon passage.

House members passed the bill after much emotional discussion. The bill would update and clarify a law that has been on the books since the 1800s. It went into effect after the U.S. Supreme Court issued its decision on Roe v. Wade, ruling that there is no constitutional right to abortion.

An injunction blocking enforcement of the state’s abortion law was issued by Kanawha County Circuit Court Judge Tera Salango. West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey is appealing the injunction to the state Supreme Court.