050174 hs Live birth Protection proposed

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) - A bill that would provide state protection and mandate medical care for live births resulting from abortions has been introduced in the legislature.

The legislation, sponsored by Assemblyman Harold Grune of Rockland County. states that a mother abandons all legal rights over an aborted fetus born live-that is, a fetus that is breathing, whose heart is beating or which shows any other evidence of life.

Social services officials would have custody of such an aborted child, and the state Health Department would be; required to promulgate regulations to ensure the health and! safety of the child.

The physician attending the abortion would be required to keep records of life-sustaining; efforts and to compile vital statistics about the fetus.

The measure would permit abortions only in hospitals after the 12th week of pregnancy. After the 20th week, two physicians would have to be, present for the operation.

The bill has been reported, out of committee and was awaiting  debate. in the Assembly.