Jasper Packard: “I would like to extend my strong support for H.R. 1218, The Child Custody Protection Act. As a father of seven and a…”

“I would like to extend my strong support for H.R. 1218, The Child Custody Protection Act. As a father of seven and a grandfather to 34, the thought of a stranger taking one of my grandchildren to another state to receive an abortion absolutely sickens me. The Child Custody Protection Act would make it a federal offense for someone who is not the parent or guardian, to knowingly transport a minor across state lines so that she can receive an abortion. H.R. 1218 is plainly an issue of parental knowledge and state laws. It is alarming to think that our children are required to receive parental consent to take aspirin at school, yet a stranger can make critical decisions about their health and well-being. Mr. Speaker, more than twenty states currently require parental consent or notification as a precondition to receive an abortion. In supporting this legislation we are respecting state rights, and upholding the family relationship as the center for moral values and guidance. I urge all my colleagues to support this bill.”