The House Public Policy Committee heard SB 404 on abortion, child abuse, and human trafficking sponsored by Rep. Mayfield and Rep. Washburne. Author Sen. Houchin characterized the bill as strengthening parental rights by requiring parental consent with proof of identity to be provided before a minor may have an abortion. The bill addresses, among other items, a number of abortion issues involving a pregnant minor, authorizes the award of civil damages if the parental consent requirement is violated, and authorizes penalties to be imposed on certain individuals for failure to report suspected child abuse or sexual trafficking.
Extensive testimony was heard from attorneys, medical professionals, and others both in support and in opposition to the bill. The Committee did not take any action on the bill.
Read the bill at https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2017/bills/senate/404