Central Florida reacts: 6-week abortion ban signed by Gov. DeSantis

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — While proponents are celebrating, lawmakers who voted against Florida’s six-week abortion ban Thursday say the fight isn’t over.

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Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the bill late Thursday after it was approved by the Republican-led Legislature.

The bill bans abortions after six weeks of pregnancy. It contains some exceptions, including to save the woman’s life, and allows abortions for pregnancies involving rape or incest until 15 weeks with proper documentation.

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Protesters filled the halls of the Florida State House Thursday while Democrats on the House floor asked for compromise..

“We see the results already with a 15-week ban,” said Rep. Anna Eskamani (D-Orlando). “There’s no way it doesn’t get worse with a six-week ban.”

Despite the objections, the heartbeat bill passed and was quickly signed by DeSantis.

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“Thank you to all of those fighting for life,” said rep. Doug Bankson R-Apopka). “This bill saves lives.”

Groups like Students for Life Action are also celebrating the win, saying in a statement, “Today’s vote is nothing shy of a sweeping victory for preborn Floridians.”

District 44 Representative Rita Harris (D-Orlando) says the fight is just beginning.

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“I really do think it will trigger some lawsuits,” Harris said.

The Florida Supreme Court is currently considering a 15-week abortion ban signed into law last year, meaning the six-week ban won’t take effect until the court makes a ruling in that case.

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