Abortion legislation has passed the House of Assembly after conservative Labor politicians voted in support of the bill.
Attorney-General Brian Wightman, Denison Labor MHA Graeme Sturges and Braddon Labor MHA Brenton Best spoke in support of the Reproductive Health Bill last night, guaranteeing Health Minister Michelle O’Byrne the crucial 13 votes.
The legislation removes abortion from the criminal code and allows abortion up to 16 weeks if the woman provides her consent, and after 16 weeks if two doctors say it is medically, psychologically or socio-economically justified.
Mr Wightman opposed voluntary euthanasia legislation on personal grounds last year and was expected by opponents of the legislation to vote against the bill.
He defended his decision by saying he could not in good conscience restrict a woman’s choice.
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• Australian Christian Lobby: Tas abortion legislation avoids difficult questions
