A measure that would make abortions after 20 weeks of pregnancy illegal failed to pass the House of Representatives. Many in leadership felt that a requirement that rape be formally reported to police before the abortion could take place was unfair to victims. In cases of incest, the bill would only allow abortions after the 20-week mark if the victim was a minor. The rally against the mandate was led by Representative Renee Ellmers of North Carolina, who was one of several conservative women to vote against it. Ellmers explained after the vote, “The thing is—I am pro-life. I believe in the sanctity of life. I believe that life begins at the point of conception.” Ellmers said, “Millennials are with us on so many issues. But when we come off as harsh and judgmental, we stop that conversation. We need to do a better job.” Several states already have their own laws banning abortions after 20-weeks. Another bill renewing an existing ban on any federal funds being used for abortion passed instead …
