More than 33 states have passed some kind of parental involvement law. There is no evidence that these laws drive girls to have illegal abortions. Parental involvement is the best way to protect the life and health of teenage girls. However, Bell did not have an abortion, according to Jesse Giles, M.D., who performed the teenager s autopsy. Giles says he used the word abortion on his report to represent the traditional medical use of the word, which is miscarriage.
Some teenagers face physical danger from angry parents.
Others are pregnant due to rape or incest and cannot tell their parents. The judicial bypass or waiver provision generally included in these laws takes these possibilities into account. Abusive parents face the threat of criminal penalties, regardless of why they are angry with their child. The waiver component actually provides additional protection for the minor child, as it requires the notification of the appropriate authorities if the girl alleges abuse, either physical or sexual. These laws interfere with a woman s right to choose abortion.