Charles T. Canady: “Regarding the life exception language contained in the gentleman's proposal, it is already covered in H.R. 1122. The…”

“Regarding the life exception language contained in the gentleman's proposal, it is already covered in H.R. 1122. The language in the amendment simply restates what is obvious in the language in the bill. The life exception in H.R. 1122 states, and I will read it; it is on page 2 beginning on line 7: This paragraph shall not apply to a partial-birth abortion that is necessary to save the life of a mother whose life is endangered by physical disorder, illness, or injury. That very statement is made on the floor today that this bill does not provide an exception for the life of the mother. It is clearly right here in the bill. I have asked the Members to read it, look at it with their own eyes. Regarding the health exception, partial-birth abortion is never necessary for a mother's health or future fertility. Hundreds of obstetricians, gynecologists, and maternal fetal specialists, along with former Surgeon General C. Everett Koop, have come forward to unequivocally state that, quote, ``Partial-birth abortion is never medically necessary to protect the mother's health or her future fertility. On the contrary, this procedure can pose a significant threat to both,'' close quote.”