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  • Crowd outside of the Indiana Statehouse
  • Crowd outside of the Indiana Statehouse
  • Crowd outside of the Indiana Statehouse
  • Crowd outside of the Indiana Statehouse
  • Crowd outside of the Indiana Statehouse

INDIANAPOLIS (April 9, 2016) — Hundreds of abortion rights supporters gathered at the Indiana Statehouse to protest an anti-abortion law signed by Gov. Mike Pence that is among the most restrictive in the U.S.

Protesters waved signs reading “Fire Mike Pence” while speakers took turns criticizing the law, which bans abortions sought because of fetal genetic abnormalities. Doctors who perform abortions requested because of the medical complications could be sued or professionally reprimanded under the law.

“Women make these decisions with their partners, their families, and with their doctors. It should not be the responsibility of the woman to care what Mike Pence thinks of her decision,” says Dr. Katie McHugh an Indianapolis ObGyn.

The Republican governor has said the bill affirms the sanctity of life while allowing abortions if a mother’s life is at risk.

“Look, this issue in particular generates strong feelings. I respect the feelings of every Hoosier on this issue but I’m pro life and I stand by my decision to sign this legislation,” says Governor Mike Pence.

State police estimated Saturday’s crowd to be 1,000 strong. Opponents say the bill amounts to lawmakers intruding in a private decision, and follows a campaign in which women called Pence’s office to tell him about their periods.