By Florida Catholic staff - Florida Catholic
TALLAHASSEE | In their annual statement marking the Jan. 22 anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court's decision in Roe v. Wade, the bishops of Florida acknowledge that the Church's teaching on abortion is continuously proving to be prophetic.
"Our nation is increasingly rejecting abortion and Roe v. Wade as states continue to adopt more limitations on abortion and expand alternatives to abortion," said the bishops.
The bishops also recognized that much work still needs to be done. They note that the privacy clause in Florida's constitution poses unique challenges regarding abortion laws in the state. Florida courts have invoked a broad interpretation of the right to privacy to block laws that seek to protect mothers and defenseless children in the womb from the harm of abortion. The blocked laws include requiring a 24-hour reflection period prior to abortion, which is pending appeal, and parental consent prior to a minor's abortion.
"We advocate for the reconsideration of these decisions, and we remain hopeful that the courts will ultimately protect women in Florida from the predatory practices of the abortion industry," stated the bishops.
Read their full statement here; and in Spanish, here.
