Mark Messmer on Abortion

Prohibit abortion for race, sex, diagnosis of disability

ACLU opinion in opposition (April 7, 2016): Racial justice, gender equality, and disability rights advocates have opposed legislative proposals like the Indiana law. They point out that if politicians were serious about addressing inequities based on race, gender or disability status, they could expand access to high quality healthcare, education, and employment opportunities.

Legislative Summary:  Passed Senate 37-13-0 on Mar/1/16; State Sen. Mark Messmer voted YES; passed House 60-40-0 on Mar/9/16; signed by Governor Mike Pence on Mar/24/16.

Voted YES on de-funding Planned Parenthood

Planned Parenthood of Indiana is Indiana's largest abortion provider and does more than 5,000 abortions each year. Indiana became the first state of several to kick the abortion business out of its program in May 2011. A provision of the law, HB1210, would prevent Medicaid patients from obtaining services at Planned Parenthood & other facilities that provide abortions.

Governor Mitch Daniels signed the law, which would cut off anywhere from $2 million to $3 million the Planned Parenthood abortion business receives in federal funds via the Indiana government through Medicaid. [Planned Parenthood sued, which led to the court ruling].

Legislative record:Passed House 66-32-2 on 4/27/11; passed Senate 35-13-2 on 4/19/11; signed by Governor 5/10/11; Rep. Mark Messmer voted YEA.