Urges ‘no’ vote on Measure 2

To the editor:

On Aug. 24, Alaskans will line up at the polls to vote in the state’s primary election. One ballot measure that will face the people on that day, Measure 2, will pose a threat to the health, well-being and perhaps the lives of some very unfortunate young women in our state.

If passed, Measure 2 will require each teen under 18 seeking an abortion to undergo a parental consent process involving not only the teen and her guardian, but her doctor as well. In-state research suggests that the great majority of parents — around 70 percent — are already involved in their teens’ decisions regarding pregnancy. However, this measure means that some young Alaskans living in broken, alcoholic, drug-abusive homes — or worse — could face a no-win situation of either dealing with these dangerous parents, navigating a complicated and intimidating judicial bypass procedure, or the life-threatening decision of delaying quality medical care or taking matters into their own hands.

Those who are opposed to Measure 2 know that strong family communication as well as adequate education and prevention measures are the only real answers to teenage pregnancy. A new government mandate like Measure 2 will improve nothing in the long run of the future of young Alaskans.

When applied prudently, government has the unique ability to improve lives on a massive scale, but with this power comes the potential to cause enormous suffering as well. There is no doubt that Measure 2 will accomplish only the latter if passed.

We must wield the awesome power of government responsibly. A chance to do this will face each Alaskan Aug. 24, which is why I ask you all as my fellow Alaskans to vote “no” on 2.

Madelin Siedler

Wasilla