florida abortion legislation updates - march 2011

Published on 15/05/2026 14:17

This report summarizes key developments in florida abortion legislation during march 2011. Several bills addressing abortion funding, ultrasound requirements, and parental notification for minors progressed through the florida house and senate. These actions followed previous legislative efforts and gubernatorial vetoes, reflecting ongoing debates surrounding reproductive rights in the state. The news service of florida provided extensive coverage of these proceedings, which are detailed below.

Abortion funding restrictions advance in senate

On march 28, 2011, the senate judiciary committee approved SJR 1538 on a party-line vote. This measure seeks to amend the florida constitution to prohibit public funding for abortions, with exceptions only for cases of rape, incest, or when the life of the mother is endangered. The bill initially focused solely on saving the mother's life but was subsequently amended to include the broader exceptions. This reflects a shift in the legislative approach to abortion funding.

House committee approves abortion funding ban

Following senate action, the house insurance and banking committee approved HB 97 on march 30, 2011. Sponsored by Rep. matt gaetz, this bill mirrors the senate's intent by barring publicly-funded insurance plans from covering abortions unless the woman's life is at risk or the pregnancy resulted from rape or incest. This legislation builds upon a previous bill vetoed by then-governor charlie crist, demonstrating continued legislative interest in restricting abortion funding.

Ultrasound requirement bill gains traction

On march 22, 2011, a house committee revived a bill requiring all women seeking an abortion to undergo an ultrasound. HB 1127, reported by david royse of the news service of florida, aims to extend the existing ultrasound requirement, currently mandated in the second or third trimester, to include the first trimester. This measure was previously vetoed, highlighting the persistence of efforts to mandate ultrasound procedures for women seeking abortions.

Stricter rules for minors seeking abortions

A house panel approved a bill on march 21, 2011, intended to strengthen a 2005 law concerning minors seeking abortions. Sponsored by Rep. kelli stargel, the bill, reported by michael peltier, aims to make it more difficult for teenagers to falsely claim they have parental consent. The legislation seeks to address perceived loopholes in the existing law, aiming to ensure parental involvement in decisions regarding abortion for minors.

Key legislators and sponsors involved

  • Rep. matt gaetz (R-Fort.): Sponsor of HB 97 (abortion funding ban)
  • Rep. kelli stargel (R-Lakeland): Sponsor of the bill strengthening parental notification laws for minors.
  • SJR 1538: Senate bill amending the florida constitution regarding abortion funding.
  • HB 1127: House bill requiring ultrasounds for all women seeking abortions.

These legislative actions reflect a complex and ongoing debate surrounding abortion policy in florida during early 2011. The bills' progression through the legislative process indicates a strong push for stricter regulations on abortion access and funding.