Iowa now has the most restrictive abortion laws in the country. Governor Kim Reynolds today signed a bill that bans all abortions after a fetal heartbeat is detected or around the six week mark of pregnancy.
Governor Reynolds stated, "I believe that all innocent life is precious and sacred and, as governor, I have pledged to do everything in my power to protect it and that's what I am doing today."
The new law is being met with controversy. Planned Parenthood of the Heartland and the American Civil Liberties Union of Iowa announced they would bring court challenges. The groups held a rally outside the statehouse prior to Governor Reynolds signing the bill.
Suzanna de Baca is the president of Planned Parenthood of the Heartland and told the crowd, ""I am here to tell Governor Reynolds: 'We will see you in court." Officials with the ACLU of iowa attended the rally and stated they would be part of the litigation team and will stand with Planned Parenthood.
The law will go into effect on July 1st, pending the court battle.