Constitutional Issues Raised In Senate Debate Over Abortion Proposal

Constitutional issues are raised about a proposal to let parents of minor children sue anybody who helps that child go to Illinois and get an abortion without parental knowledge. The bill would let ministers be sued if parents or guardians think they have suggested an abortion or helped the child get it. Opponent Ken Jacob of Columbia says that’s an unconstitutional violation of the confidential relationship between members of the clergy and those who consult them. Jacob charges sponsor John Loudon is just getting a few days of headlines and a lawsuit that will throw out his bill if it becomes law.