H.R.es56 - Memorializing the unborn by lowering the United States flag to half-staff on the 22d day of January each year. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.Res.56 proposes that the U.S. flag be lowered to half-staff on January 22nd of each year to memorialize the unborn. This date marks the anniversary of the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision, which was later overturned in 2022.
The resolution expresses support for the recognition of a "Day of Tears" and encourages both individuals and legislators to take actions reflecting a pro-life stance.
The resolution was introduced in the House of Representatives and referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.
Expected Effects
If passed, this resolution would formalize a symbolic gesture of mourning for unborn children lost to abortion. It could lead to increased public awareness and debate surrounding abortion rights.
It may also influence state-level legislation related to abortion access and reporting requirements.
However, the resolution's impact is primarily symbolic, as it does not directly enact any laws or policies.
Potential Benefits
- Could provide emotional support and validation for individuals and groups who oppose abortion.
- May raise awareness about the number of abortions performed annually.
- Could encourage further discussion and debate about the moral and ethical implications of abortion.
- Might motivate individuals to support organizations that provide alternatives to abortion.
- Could be seen as a step towards greater legal protections for unborn children by some.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Could be seen as a divisive and politically charged gesture that alienates individuals who support abortion rights.
- May cause emotional distress for individuals who have had abortions or who support abortion access.
- Could be interpreted as an attempt to stigmatize abortion and limit access to reproductive healthcare.
- Might be viewed as a violation of the separation of church and state by imposing a particular religious or moral viewpoint.
- Could detract from other important issues and priorities facing the country.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution's constitutional alignment is complex and subject to interpretation. While the Constitution does not explicitly address abortion, the Supreme Court has recognized a right to privacy that encompasses abortion decisions (though this has been modified by the overturning of Roe v. Wade).
The resolution does not directly violate any specific constitutional provision. However, some may argue that it infringes upon the principle of separation of church and state (Amendment I) by promoting a particular moral or religious viewpoint on abortion.
Others may argue that it aligns with the Constitution's broader goals of promoting the general welfare and securing the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, as stated in the Preamble.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).