Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds issued a statement today (Tuesday) in regards to the Iowa Supreme Court denying Planned Parenthood’s petition for a rehearing of the Fetal Heartbeat Law. With the petition overruled, the case was brought back to the District Court, where the injunction against the bill was lifted. The Fetal Heartbeat Law will go into effect next Monday, banning abortions after cardiac activity is detected in a baby by an ultrasound, which is usually around the sixth week of pregnancy. There are some exceptions, in the cases of rape and incest, that must be reported to law enforcement or a health agency, fatal abnormalities, and medically necessary in the protection of the mother’s life. Reynolds, a pro-life supporter, says, “Today is a victory for life. There is nothing more sacred and no cause more worthy than protecting innocent unborn lives. As the fetal heartbeat law finally takes effect, our work will continue to strengthen a culture of life in Iowa. I remain deeply committed to supporting women in planning for motherhood, promoting the importance of fatherhood, elevating adoption, and protecting in vitro fertilization (IVF). Families are the foundation of society, and policies that encourage strong families will make our state and country strong for generations to come.” Reynolds signed the ban into law on July 12, with Planned Parenthood of the Heartland filing the legal challenge in state court on July 17, taking the bill to the Supreme Court. Before the passing of the law, abortions were legal up until the 20th week of pregnancy in Iowa.
