Locals react to Roe v. Wade decision
BOWLING GREEN, Ky.-The stunning decision made by the Supreme Court to overturn Roe v. Wade has made shockwaves across the country.
With both those in support….
“There’s currently over a dozen states that have statutes like Kentucky that took effect upon Roe’s fall and that will protect more babies than ever before,” said Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron.
And against the decision….
“I don’t think any of us thought this would actually happen,” said Bowling Green resident Cassi Payne.
The Supreme Court ended constitutional protections for abortion that had been in place for nearly 50 years…it’s expected to lead to abortion bans in half the states.
So what does this mean for Kentuckians?
Kentucky is one of 13 states that has a trigger law…which goes into effect now that Roe v. Wade has been struck down.
This means it is no longer legal to get an abortion in Kentucky, even in cases of incest or rape.
“As of today, there is a ban in Kentucky. And a 12 year old girl, raped by her father, could not have a remedy in this state,” said Kentucky State Representative Patti Minter.
The closest state without restrictions to get an abortion is Illinois. Some think this decision can marginalize people who don’t have access to resources to make a long trip possible.
News 40 asked people in Bowling green their thoughts on the court’s decision.
“It’s hard to talk about it, it’s hard to even breathe when I’m thinking about it. And I think right now our initial thoughts are just shock and awe,” said Payne.
“I think people should have the choice to make their own decisions. If you can live with the consequences then I think that should be on the individual,” said Bowling Green resident Aaron Feely.
“Probably just like fear for all of our reproductive rights. I definitely don’t think it’s okay for the government to tell us what we can and can’t do with our bodies,” said Bowling Green resident Emley Lane.
But still some lawmakers think this is a step in the right direction.
“We must continue to advocate and advance legislation for the babies who cannot stand up for themselves,” said Cameron.
