SB 6452 Limiting Service Pregnancy Centers
In our state, there are pregnancy resource centers and pregnancy help medical clinics. Last year 60,000 women were served at these facilities. 34,000 women received free medical and social services, including pre-natal classes, diapers, maternity and baby clothing.
SB 6452 would require these centers to disclose immediately that they do not provide abortion or comprehensive birth control services, referrals for abortion or comprehensive birth control services, or medical care for pregnant women. This must be communicated understandably upon initial contact with the person seeking services, and in writing posted at the main entry door of the facility.
In addition, these centers must inform a woman that she is about to receive an over the counter pregnancy test, and allow her to self-administer it. Violations of the conditions of this act are considered violations of the Consumer Protection Act. Anyone who is injured under the consumer protection act can bring a lawsuit to recover actual damages, together with the costs of the suits. The court can award triple damages, up to $10,000. Many clinics may have to close as a result of a lawsuit.
None of these requirements apply to pregnancy centers that offer abortion services, e.g. Planned Parenthood.
Please ask your Senator to oppose SB 6452 as a discriminatory and unfair act.
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SB 5476 Abolishing the Death Penalty
Washington State enacted the death penalty in 1981. Of the 30 people who have been sentenced to death since then, four have been executed. 37 other states and the Federal Government have the death penalty.
In recent years, a few states have repealed the death penalty. Other states are considering repeal because of the increasing concern over the potential of innocent people being executed. Additional concerns include the vastly disproportionate percentage of death sentences for people of color, and the inability of many capital defendants to afford adequate representation.
Ask your Senator to support SB 5476, as the death penalty erodes respect for human life.
If you need help to identify how to contact your state senator, refer to the Catholic Advocacy Network. You can also call the Legislative switchboard: 800-562-6000.
Thank you for taking the time to advocate for life and justice,
Jim
Jim Thomas
Director of Adult Faith Formation for
Catholic Social Teaching and Family Life
Archdiocese of Seattle
710 - 9th Avenue
Seattle, WA 98104-2017
Dir. (206) 382-4268
Toll-free (800) 950-4970
Fax (206) 264-2084
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