S. Dakota Bill Stirs Abortion Controversy

On Tuesday afternoon, the South Dakota House of Representatives will debate a proposed law that stands to prevent pregnant women from harm—and could legalize the killing of abortion providers in the state. The unprecedented bill was unearthed in late January by Phil Jensen, a Republican from Rapid City, and wishes to protect a family member who kills “in the lawful defense of… his or her husband, wife, parent, child, master, mistress, or servant, or the unborn child of any such enumerated person,” ruling that any such killings would be a justifiable homicide. “I don't believe the intent is malicious,” said Alisha Sedor, the executive director of NARAL Pro-Choice South Dakota. “But the potential legal implications of the bill are what make it dangerous. If it passes without an amendment exempting attacks on providers, it could incite violence from individuals who believe their actions will be found justifiable in court."