Backers say the bill's impact on young women is softened by its exemptions. A minor also could avoid notification by convincing a judge she is mature enough to make the abortion decision on her own. The bill also would make it a third-degree felony for doctors to give an abortion without proof of parental notification. The state Health Department does not compile abortion data by age, a spokeswoman said. Meanwhile, supporters are lobbying hard to increase their chances that the legislation will pass.
Opponents also say many minors who get abortions already bring a parent.
Committee action on both bills was delayed until later in the session. Enter words describing a concept or keywords.