Ricketts Introduces Bill to Ensure Dignified Burial for Aborted Fetal Remains
January 24, 2025
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) led eleven colleagues in introducing the Dignity for Aborted Children Act. The bill would require abortionists to dispose of the remains of unborn children with the same dignity and respect as any other human being who dies.
“A few years ago, the remains of over 2,200 aborted babies were discovered in an abortionist’s home,” said Senator Ricketts. “It’s horrifying that human remains would be treated like common medical waste. My bill will ensure that the remains of aborted children are given the dignity and respect they deserve.”
Ricketts’ bill is co-sponsored by Senators Jim Banks (R-IN), Steve Daines (R-MT), Josh Hawley (R-MO), Jim Justice (R-WV), James Lankford (R-OK), Jim Risch (R-ID), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Thom Tillis (R-NC), and Roger Wicker (R-MS).
The bill was first covered by the Daily Signal here. Bill text can be found here.
Ricketts has long championed the right to life. When he was Governor, he signed into law bills to ban dismemberment abortion and bolster Nebraska’s informed consent protections for moms. He provided pregnant mothers priority parking spots and nursing mothers’ rooms at state buildings. He also allowed state teammates to donate unused vacation leave to support expecting mothers.
BACKGROUND
The Dignity for Aborted Children Act sets out requirements for the disposition of human fetal tissue from an abortion.
Specifically, the bill:
- Requires abortionists to dispose of the remains of unborn children just as any other human being.
- Requires abortionists to obtain a patient’s informed consent for retaining possession of the remains or for allowing the abortionist to transfer the remains to an entity that provides interment or cremation services.
Abortionists must ensure any tissue released to them is interred or cremated within seven days of the procedure in a manner consistent with state law regarding the disposal of human remains. Abortionists must report annually about these requirements and other specified information. The bill provides civil or criminal penalties for violations of disposal, informed consent, and reporting requirements.
Ricketts’ bill is endorsed by Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, Concerned Women for America, and Students for Life Action.