On Tuesday, July 25^th, the U.S. Senate will take up the Child Custody Protection Act (CCPA) (S. 403). The CCPA would make it a federal crime to transport a minor girl across state lines to obtain an abortion with the intent of circumventing the parental involvement law of the girl’s home state. The prohibition would not apply when the abortion is necessary to save the minor’s life. The measure would prevent the abridgement of parental rights secured under state law.  

In a July 19^th letter, Cardinal William Keeler, Chairman of the Bishops’ Committee for Pro-Life Activities, urged U.S. Senators to support S. 403. “S. 403 affirms parents’ right to protect their minor daughter from those who have no legal responsibility for her, and who unilaterally decide that a secret abortion is what she needs.” The Cardinal argues, “No one else – boyfriends, in-laws, counselors, friends – can substitute for the fundamental role of parents.” The Cardinal adds, “Many states have wisely chosen to protect parents’ rights in this area, and the intent of their protective laws should not be thwarted.”   

Click here to urge your U.S. Senators to support the Child Custody Protection Act (S. 403) that would make it a federal crime to transport a minor girl across state lines to obtain an abortion with the intent of circumventing the parental involvement law of the girl’s home state.