Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
Available On Air Stations
Watch Live

Politics

Backers Of Restricting Teen Abortions Try Again

Backers Of Restricting Teen Abortions Try Again
Supporters of restricting teen abortions are trying to qualify a parental-notification bill for a state ballot. California voters have rejected three similar measures in the past five years.

Supporters of restricting teen abortions are trying to get a parental notification bill on a future ballot. California voters have rejected three similar measures in the past five years.

The proposed initiative would require doctors to notify parents before performing an abortion on a minor. Girls who didn't want a parent notified would need documented proof of abuse, or get a judicial waiver.

Vince Hall is with the San Diego County chapter of Planned Parenthood. He said most teens who are considering an abortion involve a parent in their decision making.

Advertisement

"In those cases where there isn't that parent involved, it's often for a very good reason," Hall said. "The teen has a genuine, bonafide fear of physical violence at home, of being thrown out of her home."

Backers of the initiative say San Diego Reader publisher Jim Holman is again involved in the effort. Holman has been one of the major underwriters of the previous initiative campaigns.

Holman did not respond to a request for an interview.