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Publications icon2024 Session Laws of Kansas

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MESSAGES FROM THE GOVERNOR

Senate Substitute for House Bill No. 2436

An Act concerning abortion; relating to unlawful coercion to obtain an abortion; creating the crime of coercion to obtain an abortion; providing the penalties therefor; providing for enhanced criminal penalties for offenses committed with the intent to compel a woman to obtain an abortion; amending K.S.A. 21-6804 and repealing the existing section.

Message to the Legislature of the State of Kansas:

While I agree that no one should be coerced into undergoing a medical procedure against their will, it is already a crime to threaten violence against another individual.

Additionally, I am concerned with the vague language in this bill and its potential to intrude upon private, often difficult, conversations between a person and their family, friends, and health care providers. This overly broad language risks criminalizing Kansans who are being confided in by their loved ones or simply sharing their expertise as a health care provider.

Therefore, under Article 2, Section 14(a) of the Constitution, I hereby veto Senate Substitute for House Bill 2436.

Laura Kelly, Governor

Dated April 12, 2024.

Secretary of State Seal