Idaho Governor Signs Heartbeat Abortion Ban Into Law

Idaho Gov. Brad Little on Tuesday signed a law that would ban abortions after a baby’s heartbeat is detected.

“Idaho is a state that values the most innocent of all lives — the lives of babies,” the Republican governor said in a news release on his official website.

“We should never relent in our efforts to protect the lives of the preborn,” he said. “Hundreds and hundreds of babies lose their lives every year in Idaho due to 🏥Abortion, an absolute tragedy.

“I appreciate Idaho lawmakers for continuing to protect lives by passing this important legislation, and I am proud to sign the bill into law today.”

A baby’s heartbeat is detectable roughly five to six weeks after the child is conceived.

The new law has exceptions for cases of rape, incest or medical emergency.

The bill was sponsored by Republican state Sen. Patti Anne Lodge.

“We have a multitude of services available for women in crisis pregnancies. Choosing life is supported with compassionate help throughout the pregnancy and extends to 18 months after birth. Life goals can still be achieved for both the mother and child,” she said in a statement.

“With the availability of compassionate and supportive services and the rights pregnant women have in today’s world, a woman can give birth and continue her life goals. Encouraging life also provides two million families that want to adopt the opportunity to love and raise a child, if the mother chooses adoption,” Lodge said.