Hold firm, Governor, on abortion bill veto

Like in most big battles throughout history, there comes a time when a army has to "hold the line" to deter the enemy. We have seen it played out in many of America's conflicts.

Now there is a time in the political arena where Gov. Bruce Rauner must "hold the line" in upholding his pledge to veto House Bill 40, which would allow Medicaid funding by the state to pay for abortions.

Whether you are pro-choice or not, HB 40 is simply a bad bill. It would allow funding for a procedure when funding for anything in this state cannot be done because of a "do-nothing" state legislature that can't even pass a state budget. Allowing this bill to pass would simply add more financial burden to a state already wracked with financial overload and on the brink of bankruptcy. The other part of the bill that is bad is that takes out the "human" element - in other words, it omits any reference that life begins at conception - that a human being is formed.

For those who feel state-paid abortions should be provided for women, especially those who are low income and cannot afford such a procedure, there are other options. Adoption is one. There are also many wonderful organizations and agencies that can help women who are facing pregnancy.. Abortion does not have to be the end all for women who are pregnant. What better way for a woman to leave a legacy than to give the gift of life?

I strongly urge Gov. Rauner to veto HB 40 and keep Illinois a state where life is valued from conception to natural death.

Gerry Bliss

Elk Grove Village