Lynn C. Woolsey: “I rise today to urge my colleagues to vote yes on this rule, and, to go to conference on the Freedom of Access to Clinic…”

“I rise today to urge my colleagues to vote yes on this rule, and, to go to conference on the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances bill. The bill has such strong support that it passed this body by voice vote. This bill is about removing obstacles to our fundamental rights, so placing obstacles in its path now would be fundamentally wrong. This bill will give our law enforcement officers the tools necessary to prevent blockades of clinics, and, to punish lawbreakers. Law enforcement at all levels is crying out for swift enactment of this bill--from Attorney General Janet Reno, to your local police officers. I want to point out that this is not an issue of freedom of speech, nor are many of the protesters in front of abortion clinics nonviolent as they claim. The frequency and danger of their acts have escalated alarmingly in recent years. Last year, they assaulted patients and staff, and murdered a doctor. I urge my colleagues to join me in putting an end to the unlawful activities waged by protesters at clinics.”