The State of Georgia is proposing legislation that would see abortions over 20 weeks banned.

Known as the ‘Pain Capable Unborn Child Protection Act’, the gestational age of the foetus would have to be checked, and if it is over 20 weeks, doctors will not be allowed to perform the abortion.

The lawyer proposing the legislation, Allen Peake issued a press release saying: “We should take every reasonable measure possible to ensure the safety of the unborn.

“Substantial medical evidence indicates that at 20 weeks after fertilisation, a baby in the womb is capable of feeling pain. This compelling medical evidence requires us to take the steps necessary to protect all human life from the cruel infliction of pain, suffering, and death.”

The new proposal does however say that there will be exceptions, for instance, when the life of the woman is in jeopardy.

Meanwhile the annual debate in the State of Virginia saw the defeat of two bills proposed by anti-abortionists. Both were designed to give the unborn baby legal status.

Apparently, the divide amongst the pro and anti factions went along Republican / Democratic lines in the main, with just a handful either side, joining their political opponents.

Democrats pushed for acceptance of the current laws, while Republicans want more restrictions.

Other bills in the State Senate were also killed off. One for instance would have prevented health insurance providers providing coverage for abortion, while another would have allowed people to take out civil law suits on behalf of the unborn baby.

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) offered evidence in support of the status quo; a spokesperson, Katherine Greenier said: “[Abortion is] a personal decision that should be made by a woman, her family and her doctor, not the legislature.”

However a supporter of changes to the law offered medical evidence. Dr. John Kuda told the Senate: “Women seeking termination of their pregnancy are not given all the facts of the procedure.”