In what can only be described as a completely heinous, ridiculous and inhumane act, a New Mexico lawmaker has introduced a bill that would criminalize abortion for rape victims.

Yes. You read that right.

Normally, these anti-choice politicos like to make themselves appear less nut-so by including rape exceptions in their attempts to curb abortion access. But not Rep. Cathrynn Brown (yes, a WOMAN!). If she has her way, a rape victim who ends her pregnancy would be charged with a third-degree felony for “tampering with evidence.”

According to the Huffington Post, the bill stipulates:

“Tampering with evidence shall include procuring or facilitating an abortion, or compelling or coercing another to obtain an abortion, of a fetus that is the result of criminal sexual penetration or incest with the intent to destroy evidence of the crime.”

Third-degree felonies in New Mexico carry a sentence of up to three years in prison.

Because further victimizing and criminalizing pregnant rape survivors is clearly the way to reduce abortion. Never mind things like contraception, free childcare and comprehensive sexual education. And let’s not overlook the fact that this places the burden of proof on the victim, not the perpetrator, which is completely ass backwards.

Sound off and let Rep. Brown know this is unacceptable and cruel. Email her at cath@cathrynnbrown.com.

Categories: Politics

Tags: Abortion, Cathrynn Brown, Crime, Felony, New Mexico, pregnancy, Rape