Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, applauded the United States House of Representatives for passing the Child Custody Protection Act. "I am grateful to the Representatives for making this stand in support of the unity of the family," said Cardinal Bevilacqua.

The Child Custody Protection Act will prevent adults who do not have parental authority from transporting minors across state lines for abortions, thereby circumventing parental notification laws in states that have them. Pennsylvania is one of several states with laws prohibiting minors from obtaining abortions without the consent of their parents. The legislation passed the House by 270 to 159 votes. It now goes to the Senate for consideration.

"The Child Custody Protection Act will protect the dignity of the family and the integrity of parents' rights," said Cardinal Bevilacqua. "The Act also will prevent state laws requiring parental notification from being undermined, as well as protect the rights of both minors and parents. All parents have the right to know where their children are, and what physicians are caring for them. Parents deserve to be the decision-makers for their children."

"I urge our United States Senators to follow the example of the House of Representatives and pass this common-sense pro-family legislation," said Cardinal Bevilacqua.

Contact
John Miller
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747