Bills of Congress by U.S. Congress

S.Res.30 - Honoring Mississippi's Gestational Age Act. (119th Congress)

Summary

Senate Resolution 30 honors Mississippi's Gestational Age Act, which aimed to protect unborn children from elective abortion after 15 weeks of gestation. The resolution expresses gratitude to Mississippi State Representative Becky Currie for introducing the act. It also acknowledges the Supreme Court's decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health, which overturned Roe v. Wade and returned the authority to regulate abortion to the states.

Expected Effects

The resolution itself has no direct legal effect, as it is a symbolic gesture. However, it signals continued support in the Senate for state-level restrictions on abortion and celebrates the overturning of Roe v. Wade. This could embolden further legislative efforts to restrict abortion access at both the state and federal levels.

Potential Benefits

  • Acknowledges and celebrates the overturning of Roe v. Wade, a key objective for many who believe in the sanctity of life.
  • Honors individuals like Becky Currie who have championed legislation restricting abortion.
  • Encourages states to enact laws that value and protect unborn children.
  • Reinforces the principle that states have the right to regulate abortion, as determined by the Supreme Court in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health.
  • May lead to increased support and resources for women who choose to carry their pregnancies to term.

Potential Disadvantages

  • May alienate individuals who support abortion rights and believe in a woman's right to choose.
  • Could lead to further restrictions on abortion access, potentially impacting women's healthcare options.
  • May exacerbate divisions within the country regarding abortion policy.
  • Could face legal challenges based on constitutional arguments related to privacy and equal protection.
  • The focus on abortion may divert attention and resources from other important healthcare and social welfare issues.

Constitutional Alignment

The resolution references the Supreme Court's decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health, which held that the Constitution does not confer a right to abortion and returned the authority to regulate abortion to the states. This aligns with a view of federalism where powers not delegated to the federal government are reserved to the states (Tenth Amendment). However, the resolution's implications for individual liberties and rights, particularly those related to privacy and reproductive freedom, are subject to ongoing debate and legal interpretation.

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).