HARRISBURG, Pa. — The Pennsylvania Catholic Conference today praised the state House for Wednesday’s passage of HB 118, the Unborn Child Dignity Act, sponsored by Rep. Frank Ryan (R-Lebanon). The PCC is also urging the Senate to take up the measure as soon as possible.
“This legislation is desperately needed for parents,” said Eric Failing, the Executive Director of the PCC. “It will give them the option of either taking the remains of their child or leaving them with the health care facility for cremation or burial. It would be entirely their choice.”
Failing also had high praise for Rep. Ryan for his work on the bill and for holding steady in the face of constant criticism from opponents. Ryan consistently pointed out the mischaracterizations of HB 118 and was able to maintain solid bi-partisan support.
“The catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that “bodies of the dead must be treated with respect and charity, in faith and hope of the resurrection,” Failing said. “House Bill 118 would achieve this, and help provide closure for countless parents.”
