Abortion ruling undermines parents

On Nov. 2, the state Supreme Court justices ruled Alaska’s Parental Consent Act unconstitutional and allowed an underage teenage girl to legally obtain an abortion in the state without her parents’ knowledge or permission.

Those judges ruling in favor were Chief Justice Dana Fabe and Justice Robert Eastbaugh. Presently, there are four justices, one also being the chief justice. Justice Alexander O. Bryner retired Oct. 31 and a new appointment has not been made by Governor Palin. All of the judges have children of their own, and I question if they would validate their child obtaining an abortion without their knowledge or consent.

Underage and teenage girls can obtain a legal abortion within the state of Alaska but cannot obtain medicine or get a shot from the school nurse, have surgery, play sports at school, go on field trips, have her ears pierced, obtain a driver learning permit or travel out of the country without parental consent. Her body is not fully developed nor is her mind. An immature minor child does not possess the wisdom to make such a decision.

I am confident Governor Palin will appoint a more conservative judge to replace Justice Bryner and the voice of the people will be heard during the next election.

The Alaska Legislature may change the court’s procedural rules by passing an act expressing its intent to do so by a two-thirds majority of both the House and Senate. If you object to this ruling, you can contact your local legislators to express your concerns. You can also support your governor in appealing this ruling, which divides and disintegrates the family unit by removing parents’ rights to be involved in the support and guidance of their minor children.

Sharon Benson

Palmer