Oklahoma lawmakers pass bill banning abortion after conception

The Oklahoma State House on Thursday passed a bill banning abortion from conception.

House Bill 4327 is the third piece of legislation passed this year in Oklahoma targeting abortion. Previously, the state prohibited abortion after six weeks. Additionally, performing an abortion will become a criminal offense in Oklahoma in August.

FILE – Abortion rights supporters rally at the State Capitol, May 3, 2022, in Oklahoma City. Rape, incest, and fetal or maternal health were once accepted reasons for obtaining an abortion, even in states run by the most conservative Republicans. (Sue Ogrocki/AP)

The latest bill is modeled after the controversial Texas law that allows private citizens to sue anyone who helps a woman get an abortion. It will go into effect as soon as Governor Kevin Stitt signs it.

FILE – In this April 12, 2022 file photo, Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt speaks after signing into law a bill making performing an abortion a felony, punishable by up to 10 years in prison in Oklahoma City. (Sue Ogrocki/AP)

Although Stitt didn’t immediately comment on the bill Thursday, he did promise to sign an anti-abortion bill that runs through his office and vowed to make Oklahoma “the most pro-life state in the world.” country”.

House Bill 4327 allows exceptions if the mother’s life is in danger or if the pregnancy is the result of rape or incest.