Re: Act Now! So-called "Child Custody Protection Act" Before Senate

[http://dummy.us.eu.org/robert (robert)]

Dear Senators Kennedy & Kerry,

I am writing to urge you to oppose the so-called "Child 
Custody Protection Act" (S.661).  This bill would make it a 
federal crime for anyone except a parent to assist a young 
woman by ?transporting? her across state lines for an 
abortion unless she first complies with her home state's 
parental involvement law.

The so-called ?Child Custody Protection Act? (S.661) sends 
the message to young women facing unintended pregnancies 
that they cannot turn to responsible adults, such as a 
grandparent, aunt, or a member of the clergy, for help.  As 
such, it seriously obstructs the ability of young women to 
obtain safe and legal abortions.
	
The sponsors say that this bill is necessary to 
protect "the best interests of the child." In fact, this 
bill would isolate a teenager from family members, friends, 
and other responsible adults.  Fear of prosecution would 
deter responsible, caring adults from helping a minor in a 
difficult situation.

We encourage young women to involve their parents when they 
face an unintended pregnancy and are considering their 
options.  Most teenagers do so, even when not required by 
law.  But not every family is a model family, and the 
government cannot force good communication where it does 
not already exist.   
	
This bill would place young women who are unable to talk 
with their parents at risk--and treat the people they turn 
to for help as criminals.  Please vote against the so-
called ?Child Custody Protection Act? (S.661).

Sincerely,

robert