Arlen Specter: “I oppose cloture on the Child Custody Protection Act, S. 403, because there are not adequate safeguards for young women…”

“I oppose cloture on the Child Custody Protection Act, S. 403, because there are not adequate safeguards for young women seeking abortions, particularly in cases of rape, incest, or health of the minor. On September 22, 1998, I voted against cloture on a similar bill. On July 25, 2006, I voted against a similar bill. Those bills, like the one now pending, made it a crime to take a minor across state lines for purposes of obtaining an abortion without parental consent or notification. I opposed that legislation because of my concern for minor girls who have an abusive or bad relationship with their parents, including circumstances of incest. Such a relationship makes it difficult, if not impossible, for the girl to admit to being pregnant or to express her desire to obtain an abortion. Additionally I am concerned with the delay this bill poses on young girls seeking abortions in the case of rape or health risks.”