Big Apple Abortion Policy: Rotten to the Core

Ken Connor, President, Family Research Council, July 2, 2002

The fact that New York City trains one-seventh of America's doctors makes Mayor Bloomberg's announcement all the more troubling.  A few months ago, Giuliani's successor leaked plans to force medical students who are trained in the Big Apple to learn how to perform abortions.  As of July 1, the classes began with the goal of increasing the number of abortion practitioners.  Having caved to National Abortion and Reproductive Rights Action League's demands, several liberals say the mayor "will be a pro-choice hero."  But not so fast.

Abortion is on the decline in part because younger doctors are revolted by the procedure and refuse to perform it.  It certainly pales in comparison to delivering live babies.  Fortunately, Bloomberg's law does allow for a religious/conscience exemption, giving several students a chance to opt out of the training.  The mayor's agenda is clear--produce a generation of doctors numb to the reality and effects of abortion.  One would think that after the atrocities of 9-11, the city had lost enough lives.  We strongly urge Mayor Bloomberg to reconsider and instead implement policy that makes it easier for young doctors to "do no harm."