Rick Scott on Abortion

Top Hit: Abortion Extremist

Highlights

Scott Praised The Supreme Court Overturning Roe v. Wade 

Scott Praised The Supreme Court Dobbs Ruling, Which Overturned Roe v. Wade 

Following The Supreme Court Dobbs Ruling Overturning Roe v. Wade, Scott Said “The Court Correctly Interpreted The Constitution.” According to a press release from Scott’s office, “Today, Senator Rick Scott released the following statement after the United States Supreme Court ruled in the case of Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, and overturned Roe v. Wade and Planned Parenthood v. Casey to return the authority to regulate abortion to the states. Since the Court ruled in Roe in 1973, more than 60 million unborn children have lost their lives to abortion. […] Senator Rick Scott said, ‘The importance of today’s decision by the Supreme Court cannot be overstated. For nearly 50 years, our country endured flawed legal reasoning that invented an implied constitutional right to abortion while stripping authority from lawmakers according to the will of the people. Today, the Court correctly interpreted the Constitution, defended human dignity and the foundational principle of federalism, and rightly declared that there is no constitutional right to end the life of an unborn child.’” [Sen. Rick Scott Press Release, 6/24/22]

Scott Said He “Firmly Believes That Life Begins At Conception,” And “The Fight To Protect The Sanctity Of Life Is Not Over.” According to a press release from Scott’s office, “‘I firmly believe that life begins at conception and that every child deserves to be welcomed into this world with open and loving arms. Abortion ends a life. It is abhorrent and has no place in our society. While we celebrate the Court’s latest ruling, the fight to protect the sanctity of life is not over. Lawmakers and the pro-life movement have the responsibility to make adoption more accessible and affordable, and do everything in our power to meet the needs of struggling women and their families so they can choose life. We cannot stop fighting until every life, born and unborn, is valued.’” [Sen. Rick Scott Press Release, 6/24/22]

Scott Said There Was An Argument For Federal Abortion Restrictions

Scott Said That “There's Arguments To Do It At The Federal Level” When Asked About Abortion Restriction. According to NBC News, “Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla., the chairman of Senate Republicans’ campaign fundraising arm, said Sunday that he supports ‘reasonable’ abortion restrictions and that ‘there's arguments to do it at the federal level.’ Scott was asked on NBC News’ ‘Meet the Press’ to weigh in on Sen. Lindsey Graham's bill to ban abortion nationwide after 15 weeks of pregnancy and whether he believes such restrictions should be done on the federal level. ‘Look, there’s arguments to do it at the federal level,’ he said. ‘Right now, all the candidates are taking positions. ‘I’m pro-life, as you know. I think we ought to have reasonable restrictions. I think a lot of people are comfortable with 15 weeks and exceptions for rape, incest and life of the mother, but every candidate gets to make their choice.’” [NBC News, 10/2/22]

For More Than A Decade, Scott Advocated For Roe v. Wade To Be Overturned

Scott: “Roe Versus Wade Should Be Overturned”

Scott: “I Believe That Abortion Is Wrong And Roe Versus Wade Should Be Overturned.” According to Scott’s 2010 campaign website, “I believe that abortion is wrong and Roe versus Wade should be overturned.” [FAQ Page – Rick Scott For Florida, 10/21/10]

Scott Proclaimed That Life Begins At Conception

Scott Penned Op-Ed Noting Republicans Point To “Fundamental Belief” That Life Begins At Conception

In An Op-ed, Scott Asked Democrats When Do They Believe Life Begins, Noted Republicans Point To The “Fundamental Belief” That Life Begins At Conception. According to an op-ed by Scott in the Wall Street Journal, “I have a simple question for Democrats: When do you believe life begins? The Republican position on abortion is based on a fundamental belief that life begins at conception. It’s a conclusion grounded in faith and values, but also in science. We know that unborn babies can feel pain very early. We know that after six weeks a baby’s heartbeat can be heard in the womb. Modern sonograms show unborn babies smiling, yawning and sucking their thumbs. Put simply, science has revealed that an unborn baby is a human being, and voters agree. According to recent polling conducted by the National Republican Senatorial Committee, 73% of voters agree that an unborn baby is a human being. […] Meanwhile, Republicans are happy to answer the question of when life begins: We believe life begins at conception because we believe in science and place value in every life, born and unborn. Once Democrats have an answer, we can have a legitimate debate on the issue.” [Wall Street Journal – Rick Scott, 5/9/22]

Scott: “Life Begins At Conception”

2022: Scott Said “Life Begins At Conception” Ahead Of March For Life. According to a press release from Scott’s office, “Senator Rick Scott said, ‘I am proud to be unapologetically pro-life. We should all be able to agree that life begins at conception, every child deserves to be welcomed with open and loving arms and that inflicting pain on and taking the life of an unborn child is abhorrent, and has no place in our society. Today, in the annual March for Life, we celebrate the sanctity of life and reaffirm our commitment to make sure every child’s life is valued.’” [Sen. Rick Scott Press Release, 1/21/22]

Multiple Sections Of Scott’s “Rescue America” Agenda Called For Restricting Abortion Rights

Scott Encouraged Adoption Over Abortion And Suggested Abortion Denied Science

Scott’s “Rescue America” Agenda: “Abortion Kills Human Children, To Deny That Is To Deny Science.” RescueAmerica.com, “Men and women are biologically different, ‘male and female He created them.’ Modern technology has confirmed that abortion takes a human life. Facts are facts, the earth is round, the sun is hot, there are two genders, and abortion stops a beating heart. To say otherwise is to deny science. Abortion kills human children. To deny that is to deny science.” [RescueAmerica.com, accessed 5/3/22]

Scott’s Plan: “All Government Policies Will Favor Having More Babies Adopted, Not Aborted.” According to RescueAmerica.com, “Whether you believe in God or not, as a civilized people who accept science, we must protect babies, born and unborn, from all acts of violence. All government policies will favor having more babies adopted, not aborted.” [RescueAmerica.com, accessed 5/3/22]

Scott Called For More Support For People Seeking Abortions To Focus On Adoption. According to RescueAmerica.com, “Abortions are a tragedy. We must make adoption accessible and affordable. We currently make it very expensive for prospective parents to adopt, even though many kids desperately need families. This is insane and we will change it. We will help low-income single women who are considering abortion choose life instead, by paying all costs associated with carrying the child to term and placing the child for adoption.” [RescueAmerica.com, accessed 5/3/22]

Scott Called To “Utilize And Empower” Faith-Based Adoption Agencies. According to RescueAmerica.com, “We will STOP Democrat Party efforts to discriminate against faith-based adoption agencies. We will do just the opposite. Most faith-based groups provide far superior service than government agencies do. We will utilize and empower them.” [RescueAmerica.com, accessed 5/3/22]

Scott Conducted A Political Witch Hunt Against Planned Parenthood

2015: Scott Ordered State Health Officials To Inspect Planned Parenthood Offices That Inspect Abortions

Scott Ordered State Health Officials To Inspect Planned Parenthood Offices That Inspect Abortions. According to the Associated Press, “Florida Gov. Rick Scott ordered state health officials to inspect Planned Parenthood offices that perform abortions, saying he is troubled by videos describing the organization’s procedures for providing tissue from aborted fetuses for research. The Republican governor said Wednesday the state will take quick legal and regulatory action if any of the 16 facilities in Florida are found in violation of the law.” [Associated Press, 7/29/15]

Scott Broke With Established Procedures By Announcing The Inspections Before They Happened

In Publicly Declaring His Investigations, Scott Broke With Established Procedures By Announcing The Inspections Before They Happened. According to the Miami Herald, “But investigations into Planned Parenthood in Florida have a distinctly political whiff. In publicly declaring his investigation, Scott broke with established AHCA procedures by announcing the inspections before they happened. ‘The preference is for us to just show up there unannounced,’ Coleman said. Normally, AHCA inspects healthcare facilities it licenses on an annual or biannual basis and after a complaint is filed. Most information about inspections is kept under wraps until after inquiries have been completed. Prior to Wednesday’s announcement, Coleman could not confirm when they would take place or even if they’d been completed yet.” [Miami Herald, 8/5/15]

Scott: “We Did The Right Thing, We Said We’re Going To Make Sure That The Planned Parenthood Facilities In Florida Are Compliant With The Law, So AHCA Went In To Do That. They’re Working To Make Sure That They’re Compliant With The Law, And They’ll Continue To Do That.” According to the Tampa Bay Times, “The state Agency for Health Care Administration cited clinics in St. Petersburg, Naples and Fort Myers for performing second-trimester abortions without a license, but the abortions in question are by most doctors’ standards first-trimester procedures, Planned Parenthood contends in a lawsuit filed Monday. Further, the organization frequently reports information about its abortions to the state, and it has had no pushback on similar procedures since an AHCA rule defining the first and second trimester was passed in 2006. Asked about why the state has waited until now to go after the abortions, Scott pivoted to the videos, a hot political issue, which spurred him to order inspections by AHCA. ‘As anybody that saw those videos regarding Planned Parenthood, it was very disturbing and troubling,’ he said at an event Tuesday morning in Gibsonton, Fla. ‘So, we did the right thing, we said we’re going to make sure that the Planned Parenthood facilities in Florida are compliant with the law, so AHCA went in to do that. They’re working to make sure that they’re compliant with the law, and they’ll continue to do that. I know they’re, right now, it looks like there’s going to be litigation, and AHCA will be responsible for that.’” [Tampa Bay Times, 8/18/15]

Florida’s Health Agency Said Three Planned Parenthood Clinics Performed Abortions In The Second Trimester Without A License

AHCA Reported That Planned Parenthood Reported Unlawful Abortions, But They Were Never A Violation Before; AHCA Said It Looked “Forward To Litigating” The Matter.  According to the Miami Herald, “At issue are the details of a 2006 regulation by AHCA, which defines the first trimester as the first 12 weeks after egg fertilization, or the first 14 weeks after the pregnant woman’s last menstrual period. Acting on orders from Scott to investigate every Planned Parenthood location in Florida, AHCA found cases where mothers received abortions 13 weeks after their last menstrual period. AHCA spokeswoman Katherine Riveire said in a statement Monday that Planned Parenthood reported the unlawful abortions. But the organization has not admitted to any wrongdoing. The organization routinely reports the length of pregnancies it aborts to the state, according to Second Judicial Circuit Court filings by Planned Parenthood. This reporting hasn’t resulted in violations before. Still, AHCA stands by its decision, and two weeks ago said it has not changed its definition of the first trimester. ‘The Agency looks forward to litigating this matter,’ Riviere said.” [Miami Herald, 8/17/15]

Planned Parenthood In Florida Asked A Judge For An Emergency Ruling To Allow Them To Continue Performing Abortions At 12 And 13 Weeks After State Health Officials Inspected 16 Planned Parenthood Facilities And Said Three Were Performing Second-Trimester Abortions When They Licensed To Perform First-Trimester Abortions. According to the Associated Press, “Planned Parenthood in Florida asked a judge Monday for an emergency ruling to allow them to continue performing abortions at 12 and 13 weeks after a discrepancy with the state about what constitutes first and second-trimester abortions. The request comes after state health officials recently inspected 16 Planned Parenthood facilities and said three were performing second-trimester abortions when they licensed to perform first-trimester abortions. Executive Director Laura Goodhue says the Agency for Health Care Administration changed its definitions of gestational periods and that the centers were operating in compliance with Florida law. But they’ve stopped providing abortions on women between 12 and 13 weeks and six days until a judge decides. They’ve referred about 10 patients to other medical providers in the meantime.” [Associated Press, 8/17/15]

Florida’s Health Agency Simultaneously Said Planned Parenthood Clinics Did Nothing Wrong, And That They Would Continue Investigating

AHCA Backed Down From Its Allegations Against Planned Parenthood, Saying The Abortions Were Allowed Under State Regulations. According to the Bradenton Herald, “Gov. Rick Scott’s health care agency is backing down from a legal fight with Planned Parenthood over allegations that three clinics were performing abortions not allowed by their license. In a letter to Planned Parenthood’s lawyers, Agency for Health Care Administration general counsel Stuart Williams writes that the allegedly unlawful abortions at clinics in St. Petersburg, Naples and Fort Myers are actually allowed under state regulations. AHCA had said that Planned Parenthood was conducting second-trimester abortions at clinics licensed to perform only first-trimester procedures. Under a 2006 rule, the first trimester of a pregnancy is defined as the 12 weeks after fertilization, or the 14 weeks after the pregnant woman’s last menstrual period.” [Bradenton Herald, 8/19/15]

AHCA Said They Were Not Backing Down From Investigating Planned Parenthood, Despite Also Sending A Letter Saying The Abortions Performed Were Allowed. According to the Miami Herald, “State health officials say they aren’t backing down from their investigations of abortions at three Planned Parenthood clinics despite previous instructions from the Agency for Health Care Administration that the procedures in question could resume. In a letter Wednesday, AHCA general counsel Stuart Williams wrote that the agency still believes Planned Parenthood clinics in St. Petersburg, Fort Myers and Naples performed second-trimester abortions for which they were not licensed. ‘Your client, Planned Parenthood, continues to misrepresent to the media that AHCA has changed its position, and Planned Parenthood clinics in Florida may now provide unauthorized second-trimester abortions. This is false,’ the letter says. It came just hours after another letter surfaced in news reports that Williams had sent Tuesday. The earlier letter says AHCA stands by a rule passed by the agency in 2006 defining the first trimester of pregnancy as the first 14 weeks after a pregnant woman’s last menstrual period, or 12 weeks after fertilization. A spokeswoman for AHCA had no immediate comment about the discrepancy between the letters.” [Miami Herald, 8/19/15]

Scott’s Office Directed The Health Care Agency To Edit The Press Release And Continued To Be Involved In The Investigation Even After It Had Concluded Planned Parenthood Did Nothing Wrong

Scott’s Office Scrubbed A Press Release Written By His Own Regulators That Found That There Was No “Mishandling Of Fetal Remains” At Clinics Run By Planned Parenthood, And, At The Same Time, Said It Would Refer Doctors Who Worked At Those Clinics To The State Board Of Medicine For Possible Disciplinary Action. According to Politico, “Gov. Rick Scott’s office scrubbed a press release written by his own regulators that found there was no ‘mishandling of fetal remains’ at clinics run by Planned Parenthood and, at the same time, said it would refer doctors who worked at those clinics to the state Board of Medicine for possible disciplinary action. Amid an outcry over a series of videos filmed at Planned Parenthood clinics outside Florida, Scott ordered health care regulators to inspect 16 Florida clinics run by the organization. The regulators reported that three clinics performed unlicensed abortions and that one did not follow its own guidelines for disposing of fetal remains.” [Politico, 9/2/15]

Nearly Every On-The-Record Statement Given By The Agency For Health Care Administration To Reporters And The Public Was First Approved By A Member Of Scott’s Communications Team. According to the Miami Herald, “When state health officials released the results of an investigation into Planned Parenthood clinics last month, Gov. Rick Scott’s office was whispering in their ears. Aides to the governor were intimately involved in crafting the message when the agency announced allegations that three Florida Planned Parenthood clinics had violated their licenses. Nearly every on-the-record statement given by the Agency for Health Care Administration to reporters and the public was first approved by a member of Scott’s communications team, emails obtained by the Herald/Times show.” [Miami Herald, 9/9/15]

After Results Of The Investigation Were Made Public, Scott’s Staff Continued Its Involvement By Orchestrating Attempts By AHCA Staffers To Persuade Reporters To Change Parts Of Their Stories. According to the Miami Herald, “After results of the investigation were made public, the emails show, Scott’s staff continued its involvement by orchestrating attempts by AHCA staffers to persuade reporters to change parts of their stories. Politico first reported the involvement of the governor’s office in a story last week. Scott’s office wasn’t involved in investigating Planned Parenthood beyond the public statements, AHCA spokeswoman Shelisha Coleman said.” [Miami Herald, 9/9/15]

State Regulators Fined Three Planned Parenthood Clinics And Two Other Abortion Clinics For Saying They Performed Abortions That Exceeded Their First-Trimester License

State Regulators Fined Planned Parenthood Officials In Florida $5,500 After Regulators Said That Clinics In Naples, Fort Myers and St. Petersburg Were Performing Abortions That Exceeded Their First-Trimester License. According to the Naples Daily News, “Planned Parenthood officials in Florida will fight $5,500 in fines and complaints from state regulators that argue clinics in Naples, Fort Myers and St. Petersburg were performing abortions that exceeded their first-trimester licenses. […] Planned Parenthood has 21 days to decide how to respond to the Sept. 3 complaints and fines, which includes requesting a formal hearing. The state’s action is the latest since Scott in July ordered inspections of all 16 Planned Parenthood clinics in the state that perform abortions.” [Naples Daily News, 9/12/15]

Scott: “We Took Aggressive, Immediate Action To Investigate Planned Parenthood Offices In Florida When The Horrific Videos Were Released. When We Found That Some Of Their Facilities Were Not Complying With State Law, We Held Them Accountable.” According to the Associated Press State & Local, “The outcry against Planned Parenthood heated up after secretly taped videos were released showing the organization’s officials discussing the harvesting fetal tissue for research. ‘As someone who is pro-life and a father and a grandfather, I believe we must not tolerate any gross disregard for human life. We took aggressive, immediate action to investigate Planned Parenthood offices in Florida when the horrific videos were released. When we found that some of their facilities were not complying with state law, we held them accountable,’ Scott said in a statement released by his office.” [Associated Press State & Local, 10/1/15]

Planned Parenthood Fought State Complaints That Clinics In Naples, Fort Myers, And St. Petersburg Performed Unauthorized Abortions. According to the Naples Daily News, “Planned Parenthood is fighting state complaints that clinics in Naples, Fort Myers and St. Petersburg perform second-trimester abortions in violation of their licenses. The clinics have requested administrative hearings to fight citations issued in late July, which came after Gov. Rick Scott ordered inspections of 16 Planned Parenthood clinics statewide that perform abortions. Scott’s directive was prompted by undercover videos that surfaced outside of Florida from a pro-life group that show Planned Parenthood directors talking about the sale of fetal tissue for research.” [Naples Daily News, 10/3/15]

State Eventually Dropped Their Push To Fine Planned Parenthood Clinics

Florida Health Regulators Dropped Their Push To Fine Three Planned Parenthood Centers. According to the Associated Press, “Florida health regulators are dropping their push to fine three Planned Parenthood centers, saying such action would be redundant now that the governor has signed a law that puts new restrictions on abortions and prohibits any state money from going to the clinics. Court documents show the Agency for Health Care Administration last Friday asked an administrative judge to dismiss complaints first filed last year against clinics located in St. Petersburg, Naples and Fort Myers. The state alleged that the clinics had performed second-trimester abortions that violated their licenses. Planned Parenthood representatives have maintained that abortions were performed during the first trimester and that regulators tried to change the definition to justify an investigation ordered by Gov. Rick Scott.” [Associated Press, 3/28/16]

Scott Continued To Go After Bread & Roses Women’s Health Center, But A Judge Rejected The Claim

Scott’s Administration Continued To Pursue Their Complaint Against Bread & Roses Women’s Health Center. According to the Gainesville Sun, “Gov. Rick Scott’s administration will continue to pursue their complaint against a Gainesville abortion clinic despite dropping similar cases against three Planned Parenthood clinics. The cases involved Agency for Health Care Administration allegations that Gainesville’s Bread & Roses women’s Health Center and three Planned Parenthood clinics in southwest Florida were performing second trimester abortions when the centers were only licensed to perform first trimester abortions.” [Gainesville Sun, 3/29/16]

Scott Supported Anti-Abortion Legislation And Opposed Legislation To Expand And Protect Abortion Rights

Scott Backed Legislation To Ban Abortion At 20 Weeks Of Pregnancy

2021: Scott Supported To Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act, Which Would Ban Abortion After 20 Weeks Of Pregnancy. According to Florida Daily, “Florida’s two U.S. senators–Marco Rubio and Rick Scott–joined more than 40 of their Republican colleagues in the U.S. Senate to back U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham’s, R-SC, ‘Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act’ which would offer ‘protections for unborn children at 20 weeks after fertilization, a point at which there is significant scientific evidence that abortion inflicts tremendous pain on the unborn.’ […] ‘In the United States, we believe in the sanctity of life and the value that each child brings into this world. Although not yet born, these babies are capable of feeling pain, and we must work to protect their lives just the same. I hope all my colleagues join me in protecting life and pass this legislation quickly,’ Scott said.” [Florida Daily, 1/29/21]

Scott Said “Yes” He Would Sign A Law Banning Abortion After 20 Weeks. According to a CNN transcript of the Florida gubernatorial debate, “KING: And would you sign a law that said the standard should be after 20 weeks, when the Nebraska law supporters say they have researched that fetus can feel the pain, would you sign that? Essentially under current law in most states it is 23 weeks or so most research shows when a fetus can live outside the womb. So it takes about three weeks to a month sliding back the line. Would you sign a law that said at 20 weeks, after 20 weeks no abortions? SCOTT: Yes.” [CNN – Florida Gubernatorial Debate, 10/25/10]

Scott Supported Legislation To Restrict Abortion

Scott Supported Legislation To Require Medically Unnecessary Ultrasounds Before Abortions

2022: Scott Joined Senators In Introducing Legislation Which Would Require Ultrasounds Before Abortions. According to the Washington Examiner, “Kansas GOP Sen. Roger Marshall, a medical doctor, is reportedly set to introduce a bill Thursday that would require abortion providers to perform ultrasounds before proceeding with the abortion. The Ultrasound Informed Consent Act, the text of which was obtained by National Review, stipulates that ‘prior to a woman giving informed consent to having any part of an abortion performed, the abortion provider who is to perform the abortion, or an agent under the supervision of the provider, shall perform an obstetric ultrasound on the pregnant woman.’ […] The measure further requires a provider to explain what is apparent on the ultrasound to the woman. The bill would not force a woman to look at the ultrasound image. According to the text, ‘Nothing in this section shall be construed to prevent a pregnant woman from turning her eyes away from the ultrasound images required to be displayed and described to her.’ It also adds that ‘neither the abortion provider nor the pregnant woman shall be subject to any penalty under this title if the pregnant woman declines to look at the displayed ultrasound images.’ Co-sponsors of the measure include Sens. Marsha Blackburn, Mike Braun, Bill Cassidy, Ted Cruz, Steve Daines, Cindy Hyde-Smith, Jim Inhofe, Cynthia Lummis, Mike Rounds, Rick Scott, and James Lankford.” [Washington Examiner, 3/9/22]

Scott Supported Legislation That Would Have Required Women Seeking Abortions To Pay For Ultrasounds Before Undergoing The Procedure. According to the Orlando Sentinel, “Gov. Charlie Crist on Friday vetoed a highly controversial bill that would have required women seeking abortions to pay for ultrasounds before undergoing the procedure, saying it ‘presents an inappropriate burden on women seeking to terminate a pregnancy.’ […] Supporters vowed Friday to bring the ultrasound bill back next year -- when a new figure is in the Governor’s Mansion. Whether it’s successful in 2011 will likely hinge on who wins the governor’s race this fall. Presumptive Democratic nominee Alex Sink opposes the ultrasound requirement, while Republican candidates McCollum and Rick Scott support it.” [Orlando Sentinel, 6/12/10]

Scott Supported Legislation That Required Physicians Performing Abortions To Perform An Ultrasound. According to a press release from Scott’s 2010 gubernatorial campaign, “Rick Scott released the following statement regarding Governor Crist’s veto of HB 1143: ‘I am disappointed that Governor Crist put politics before life and vetoed HB 1143. As someone who is pro-life and who spent a significant amount of my own money successfully defeating the golden ring of Obamacare, the public option, I believe that Governor Crist should have signed the pro-life ultrasound bill. This bill not only demonstrates that abortion is the taking of an innocent human life, it also prevents taxpayer funded abortions, as mandated by the federal government under President Obama’s government run health care program.’” [Rick Scott Campaign Press Release, 6/11/10]

Scott: “I’m Pro-Life. I Believe If They See The Sonogram, They Won’t Have The Abortion.” According to the Ledger, “During that meeting, he again was asked about House Bill 1143, referred to by many as the ‘anti-abortion bill.’ The bill would require a woman seeking an abortion to have an ultrasound of her fetus and to be required to pay for it. Scott was asked how he could reconcile his call for less government intervention and regulation and support the bill requiring women to look at the ultrasound. ‘I’m pro-life [#xfffd] I believe if they see the sonogram, they won’t have the abortion,’ he said.” [Ledger, 6/15/10]

Scott Signed Legislation Requiring Women To Undergo Ultrasounds Before Getting An Abortion

Scott Signed Legislation Requiring Women To Undergo Ultrasounds Before Getting An Abortion. According to CBS, “Gov. Rick Scott has signed two abortion bills into law. One of them (HB 1127) requires women to undergo ultrasounds before getting an abortion. The other (HB 1247) makes it more difficult for minors to get court waivers from Florida’s parental notification law.” [CBS, 6/24/11]

Under The Legislation, Women Were Required To Sign Forms If They Do Not Want To See The Fetal Images Or Hear Descriptions. According to the Orlando Sentinel, “HB 1127 will require ultrasounds before women can have first-trimester abortions, a requirement already in place for later-term abortions. Women will have to sign forms if they do not want to see the fetal images or hear descriptions. Supporters said the bill will ensure that women get needed information -- and may lead some to forgo abortions. Foes said the law is government interference between doctors and patients.” [Orlando Sentinel, 6/26/11]

Scott Said The Legislation Was “The Right Thing To Be Doing.” According to the Palm Beach Post, “Scott, whose daughter Allison Guimard is five months’ pregnant with what will be his first grandchild, highlighted a controversial law requiring women to have ultrasounds and opt out of hearing the procedure’s details before getting an abortion. Scott’s predecessor, Charlie Crist, vetoed a similar bill last year. ‘These bills are historic,’ Scott told a crowd that included leaders from the Florida Baptist Convention, the Florida Catholic Conference and the Florida Family Policy Council. ‘It’s the right thing to be doing.’” [Palm Beach Post, 7/31/11]

Scott: “You Should Have The Opportunity To See An Ultrasound Of Your Child. It’s Your Choice. You Don’t Have To. This Creates Choice. I Think It’s Very Positive.” According to the Miami Herald, “Asked what his response it to those who say the laws limit choice for women, Gov. Scott referred to the ultrasound bill, passed by a previous Legislature but vetoed by then Gov. Charlie Crist. ‘You should have the opportunity to see see an ultrasound of your child,’ Scott said. ‘It’s your choice. You don’t have to. This creates choice. I think it’s very positive.’” [Miami Herald, 7/30/11]

Scott Signed Legislation Requiring Women Wait At Least 24 Hours Before Having An Abortion And To Have Two Face-to-Face Visits With Doctors

Scott Signed Legislation Requiring Women Visit A Doctor And Wait At Least 24 Hours Before Having An Abortion. According to the Miami Herald, “Diving into an issue that continues to polarize the country, Gov. Rick Scott signed into law a requirement that Florida women visit a doctor and wait at least 24 hours before having an abortion. Though it won widespread support in the Republican-controlled Legislature, the issue was one of the most emotionally-charged questions tackled in the spring session. Word of its passage was quick to trigger passionate defense among pro-life supporters along with raising the ire of pro-choice activists.” [Miami Herald, 6/10/15]

Scott: “This 24-Hour Waiting Period Is An Important Step To Protecting Life While Ensuring There Is More Time To Make A Life-Changing Decision.” According to the Associated Press, “Scott defended the law. ‘As a parent and a grandparent, the sanctity of life is important to me. This 24 hour waiting period is an important step to protecting life while ensuring there is more time to make a life-changing decision,’ Scott said through a spokeswoman.” [Associated Press, 6/11/15]

Scott: “I Signed The Bill Because I Believe In What The Bill Stands For. And I’m Going To Continue To Believe That. ... I’m A Father And A Grandfather, And I Care About The Sanctity Of Life.” According to the Orlando Sentinel, “Asked about the lawsuit during a jobs-announcement event he attended in Ocoee, Scott defended the measure. ‘I signed the bill because I believe in what the bill stands for,’ he said. ‘And I’m going to continue to believe that. ... I’m a father and a grandfather, and I care about the sanctity of life.’” [Orlando Sentinel, 6/12/15]

24-Hour Waiting Period Law Went Through The Courts And Was Struck Down By The Florida Supreme Court

June 2015: ACLU Of Florida And The Center For Reproductive Rights Filed A Lawsuit One Day After Scott Signed The Waiting Period Bill, Arguing The Law Violates The Right To Privacy Guaranteed In The State Constitution. According to the Associated Press, “Two groups sued the state of Florida on Thursday seeking to stop a 24-hour waiting period for abortions from taking effect, arguing that it imposes an unnecessary burden on women seeking to end their pregnancies. The American Civil Liberties Union of Florida and the Center for Reproductive Rights filed the suit one day after Republican Gov. Rick Scott signed the bill into law. They argue that the law, which is to take effect July 1, violates the right to privacy guaranteed in the state constitution by interfering with their right to undergo the procedure.” [Associated Press, 6/11/15]

Leon County Judge Issued An Injunction To Stop The Implementation Of A Mandatory, 24-Hour Waiting Period Before A Woman Can Get An Abortion. According to the Tampa Bay Times, “A Leon County judge has issued an injunction to stop the implementation of a mandatory, 24-hour waiting period before a woman can get an abortion. The law, passed by the Legislature and signed by Gov. Rick Scott, was supposed to go into effect on Wednesday. The injunction by Chief Judge Charles Francis of Florida’s 2nd Circuit means the law won’t be enforced while a lawsuit brought by the American Civil Liberties Union on behalf of a Gainesville abortion clinic works its way through the courts. The lawsuit claims that the law is unconstitutional under Florida’s strict privacy standards. An injunction has no bearing on the final outcome of the suit.” [Tampa Bay Times, 6/30/15]

State Officials Appeals The Decision To Grant An Injunction Stopping Implementation Of The 24-Hour Waiting Period. According to the Associated Press, “Florida’s 24-hour waiting period for abortions is in legal limbo. A Florida judge blocked the new law a day before it was scheduled to take effect on Wednesday. But state officials then quickly appealed the decision. That action stayed the ruling by Judge Charles Francis. Attorneys for the American Civil Liberties Union of Florida then asked Francis on Tuesday evening to reinstate his injunction while the appeal moves forward. But there’s been no ruling so far. The case was transferred to a new judge on Wednesday as part of an annual rotation of judges.” [Associated Press, 7/1/15]

July 2015: Despite The Injunction, The 24-Hour Waiting Period Went Into Effect Because Of The Appeal From The State. According to the Palm Beach Post, “After a flurry of legal action Tuesday afternoon, Florida’s newest abortion law appears to be going into effect today as planned despite an emergency injunction blocking the law issued by a Tallahassee judge. At 2 p.m. Tuesday, Leon County Circuit Judge Charles Francis issued an 11-page order granting a temporary injunction to abortion-rights activists who filed a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the new law. That law requires women to wait at least 24 hours after meeting in person with her doctor before she can have an abortion. With an injunction in force, the law would have remained in limbo while the lawsuit proceeded. However, later Tuesday afternoon Attorney General Pam Bondi’s office filed notice that it would appeal the temporary injunction. That move stayed the temporary injunction -- meaning the new law does go into effect.” [Palm Beach Post, 7/1/15]

Tallahassee Circuit Judge Blocked The 24-Hour Waiting Period, Reinstating The Injunction Against The Law. According to the Associated Press, “A Florida judge once again blocked the state’s new 24-hour waiting period for abortions on Thursday, ended two days of legal limbo. The new law, pushed by Republican legislators who said they wanted women to have a reflective period before an abortion, was signed by Gov. Rick Scott earlier this year and took effect Wednesday. Earlier in the week, a judge had agreed to put the law on hold pending a lawsuit filed by a Gainesville clinic and other groups. But the state quickly appealed the decision, leading to a 40-minute emergency hearing in the chambers of Judge Charles Dodson. Dodson, a judge in the circuit based in Tallahassee, decided after the hearing to reinstate the injunction against the law. He agreed with lawyers representing the clinic that if left intact the law would cause ‘irreparable harm.’ He also said in his two-page order that he found it unlikely the state would be successful in overturning the injunction on appeal.” [Associated Press, 7/2/15]

February 2016: Florida’s 1st District Court Of Appeal Lifted An Injunction That Blocked The 24-Hour Waiting Period From Taking Effect. According to the Associated Press, “Abortion opponents hailed an appeals court decision Friday that allows the state to begin enforcing a law requiring women to wait 24 hours before getting an abortion, while a group suing to overturn the law vowed to keep fighting. Florida’s 1st District Court of Appeal lifted an injunction that blocked the waiting period from taking effect. The three-judge panel said opponents failed to prove the law would create irreparable harm or that the lawsuit filed by the American Civil Liberties Union of Florida on behalf of a Gainesville abortion provider is likely to succeed.” [Associated Press, 2/26/16]

April 2016: Florida Supreme Court Suspended The 24-Hour Waiting Period For Abortions Until It Decided Whether To Hear A Lawsuit Claiming The Law Is Unconstitutional. According to the Associated Press, “The Florida Supreme Court suspended the state’s 24-hour waiting period for abortions on Friday until it decides whether to hear a lawsuit claiming the law is unconstitutional. The 5-2 decision comes two months after an appeals court allowed the law to go into effect. It was immediately praised by the American Civil Liberties Union of Florida, which is suing on behalf of a Gainesville clinic to block the law. ‘Women should not suffer this burden while there is an ongoing challenge to this unconstitutional law. Forcing women seeking an abortion to make multiple visits that are medically unnecessary especially burdens poor and working women, and is potentially dangerous,’ said Nancy Abudu, legal director of the ACLU of Florida. ‘This law was about the legislature creating needless burdens to limit a woman’s access to reproductive care.’” [Associated Press, 4/22/16]

February 2017: Florida Supreme Court Blocked The 24-Hour Waiting Period. According to the St. Augustine Record, “In another in a string of rulings siding with abortion-rights advocates, the Florida Supreme Court on Thursday blocked a 2015 law that would have required women to wait 24 hours before having abortions. Thursday’s 4-2 decision was the second time the state high court kept the law, approved by the Republican-dominated Legislature and signed by Gov. Rick Scott, from taking effect.” [St. Augustine Record, 2/16/17]

2022: Florida Judge Upheld Scott’s 24-Hour Waiting Period Legislation

Associated Press Headline: Judge Upholds Florida’s 24-Hour Wait Period For Abortion. According to the Associated Press, “Women will have to wait 24 hours before getting an abortion under a ruling by a Florida judge in a nearly seven-year battle over the waiting period. Circuit Judge Angela Dempsey in Tallahassee tossed out a lawsuit filed on behalf of a Gainesville women’s clinic, saying other medical procedures have similar waiting periods and other important decisions like getting married, getting divorced and buying a gun have longer waiting periods. ‘Twenty-four hours is the minimum time needed to sleep on such an important decision,’ Judge Dempsey wrote. The waiting period goes into effect once Dempsey signs one additional piece of paperwork. Dempsey also added that exceptions for the life of a mother, documented cases of rape and incest, and victims of domestic violence and human traffic support the constitutionality of the law. […] Former governor and current U.S. Sen. Rick Scott signed the bill into law in June 2015. The ACLU of Florida and the Center for Reproductive Rights filed the suit the next day on behalf of the Bread and Roses Women’s Health Center in Gainesville. The lawsuit argued that many women will have a difficult time scheduling appointments on two consecutive days because of work or school schedules, child care availability and the need to travel, especially if they have a low income.” [Associated Press, 4/12/22]

Scott Said He Was “Glad” To See His Abortion Law Upheld

Scott Said He Was Glad To See His Abortion Law Upheld In Court. According to Scott’s official Twitter, “I was proud to sign this important bill into law as governor of Florida and I’m glad to see it upheld by the court. Life begins at conception and every child, including the vulnerable unborn, must be protected.” [Twitter, @SenRickScott, 4/13/22]

Scott Signed Legislation Requiring Women To Have A Doctor Determine Whether A Fetus Is Viable Before Having An Abortion

Scott Signed Legislation Requiring Women To Have A Doctor Determine Whether A Fetus Is Viable Before Having An Abortion. According to the Associated Press, “Under a new law, abortions will be illegal in Florida at any point in a woman’s pregnancy if her doctor determines that the fetus could survive outside the womb. Gov. Rick Scott signed a bill Friday that redefines that state’s current third trimester abortion ban. Current law prohibits abortions after 24 weeks of pregnancy unless the mother’s life is at risk. The new law will require women to have a doctor determine whether a fetus is viable before having an abortion. It also removes the exception of psychological trouble as an exception. The law takes effect July 1. It keeps an exception if a mother’s life is at risk or to prevent irreversible physical impairment of a mother’s major bodily function. The measure passed the House 70-45 and the Senate 24-15.” [Associated Press, 6/13/14]

Legislation Eliminated The Exception To Protect The Mother’s Emotional Health. According to the Tampa Bay Times, “The new proposal allows exceptions, only with written certification by two physicians, if abortion is needed to save the mother’s life or prevent serious physical injury to her. Current law also allows third-trimester abortions to protect the mother’s emotional health, which the new plan does not permit.” [Tampa Bay Times, 4/26/14]

Scott Signed Legislation Tightening Florida’s Parental Notification Law

Scott Signed Legislation Making It More Difficult For Minors To Get Court Waivers From Florida’s Parental Notification Law. According to the Associated Press, “Gov. Rick Scott has signed two abortion bills into law. One of them (HB 1127) requires women to undergo ultrasounds before getting an abortion. The other (HB 1247) makes it more difficult for minors to get court waivers from Florida’s parental notification law.” [Associated Press, 6/24/11]

Legislation Required Minors Seeking A Judicial Waiver For Parental Notification Of An Abortion To Get The Waiver In District Court Rather Than A Wider-Reaching Appeals Court. According to the Miami Herald, “ABORTION -- PARENTAL NOTIFICATION (Passed) Requires minors seeking a judicial waiver for parental notification of an abortion to get the waiver in district court rather than a wider-reaching appeals court. (SB 1770/HB 1247)” [Miami Herald, 5/8/11]

Scott Introduced Legislation That Prohibited Employees Of ICE And HHS From Transporting Undocumented People Across State Lines For Abortions 

Scott Introduced Legislation That Would Prohibit ICE Or HHS From Transporting Undocumented People Across State Lines To Receive An Abortion. According to a press release from Lankford’s office, “Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Roger Marshall (R-KS) recently introduced the No Taxpayer Funds for Illegal Alien Abortions Act to prohibit any employee or contractor with U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) or the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) from transporting any illegal immigrant across state lines for the purpose of procuring an abortion. […] Joining Lankford and Marshall as original cosponsors are Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Mike Braun (R-IN), Steve Daines (R-MT), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), James Inhofe (R-OK), Mike Lee (R-UT), Rick Scott (R-FL), and Roger Wicker (R-MS).” [Sen. James Lankford Press Release, 8/17/22]

Scott Voted To Decrease Access To Contraceptives And Abortions 

2024: Scott Opposed The Right To Contraception Act, Claiming The Legislation “Threatens The Religious Freedoms And Parental Rights Of Millions Of Americans.” According to a press release from Senator Rick Scott, “Today, Senator Rick Scott led 21 of his Republican colleagues in the U.S. Senate in a joint statement slamming Senate Democrats for pushing stunt legislation, the so-called Right to Contraception Act, which misleads the public on the accessibility of contraception and threatens the religious freedoms and parental rights of millions of Americans. This bill was first passed by Nancy Pelosi’s Democrat-controlled House in 2022 and now Senate Democrats are trying to revive it in a desperate attempt to deceive the American people.” [Press Release – Senator Rick Scott, 6/4/24]

Scott Was Called Out For Lying About The Right To Contraception Act

[VIDEO] Scott Falsely Claimed The Bill Would Require Schools To Give Contraception To Children. “MSNBC’s The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell discussed Rick Scott ahead of an interview with his opponent. O’Donnell said, ‘Yesterday, Florida's Republican Senator Rick Scott, along with 37 other Republican Senators, voted to block a bill that would have protected every American's right to have access to and use contraception just the way we all have that right today. Today, Rick Scott defended his vote by lying about the bill.’ Cut to Scott on Capitol Hill, ‘It was just a messaging vote. And actually it would have required all schools, including public schools, to give contraception including condoms. Those are six year olds, they are elementary kids. This is crazy.’ Cut back to O’Donnell, ‘And now you know what Rick Scott looks like when he's lying. That is a lie. The bill simply guarantees that contraception would remain legally available as it is today.’” [MSNBC: The Last Word, 6/6/24]

2022: Scott Voted To Proceed On A Motion That Would Provide For Congressional Disapproval Of An October 2021 HHS Rule That Removed Restrictions On Title X Funding For Counseling And Referrals Related To Abortion Services And Made Several Modifications To The Family Planning Program, Including To Advance Health Equity And Expand Access To Contraceptives. In April 2022, according to Congressional Quarterly, Scott voted for the “motion to proceed to the joint resolution that would provide for congressional disapproval of the October 2021 Health and Human Services Department rule related to the Title X family planning program. The 2021 rule took effect on November 8, 2021, and removed restrictions on Title X funding for counseling and referrals related to abortion services, which were imposed by a March 2019 rule. It also made several modifications to the family planning program, including provisions related to updated standards of care, client-centered approaches, advancing health equity, and expanding individuals' access to a range of Food and Drug Administration-approved contraceptive methods. Under the measure, the October rule would have no force or effect, and Trump-era restrictions and standards under the 2019 rule would be effectively reinstated.” The vote was on a motion to proceed. The Senate rejected the motion by a vote of 49-49. [Senate Vote 140, 4/27/22; Congressional Quarterly, 4/27/22; Congressional Actions, S.J. Res. 41]

2019: Scott Voted Against The FY 2020 Minibus Appropriations Bill, Which Continued The Mexico City Restrictions On International Family-Planning Funding. In December 2019, Scott voted against the FY 2020 minibus spending bill, which represented 8 of the 12 appropriations bills. According to Congressional Quarterly, “Within the total for global health programs, the agreement provides the FY 2019 level of $575 million for family planning and reproductive health programs. The measure does not take any actions with regard to the Mexico City restrictions on international family-planning funding that were reinstated by President Trump in January 2017, and it is silent on the May 2017 expansion of the policy, effectively leaving in place current restrictions.” The vote was a motion to concur. The Senate agreed to the motion by a vote of 71-23, thereby sending the bill to the president, who signed it into law. [Senate Vote 415, 12/19/19; Congressional Quarterly, 12/19/19; Congressional Actions, H.R.1865]

Scott On In-Vitro Fertilization

Scott voted against the right to iVF Act 

Scott Claimed To Support IVF But Voted Against The Right To IVF Act. According to the Associated Press, “Senate Republicans blocked legislation that would make it a right nationwide for women to access in vitro fertilization and other fertility treatments after Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer forced a vote on the matter Thursday in an effort to drive an election-year contrast on reproductive care. [...] All Republicans except Sens. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Susan Collins of Maine voted against advancing the measure, ensuring that it only gained 48 votes — well short of the 60 votes needed. Instead, GOP senators offered their own, alternative legislation that would discourage states from enacting explicit bans on the treatment. Democrats in turn blocked it Wednesday.” [Associated Press, 6/13/24]

[VIDEO] In An Attempt To Defend His Vote Against The Right To IVF Act Scott Falsely Claimed It Would “Take Away Religious Freedoms.” “Scott is asked about his IVF vote and if he wanted to set the record straight after voting against protections for IVF access. Scott responded, ‘Yeah. So IVF is important to me, I'm hoping to get one or more grandchildren through IVF. I think about 2% of babies born in the country are through IVF. So I'm a big supporter of it. This week I had a resolution the Democrats wouldn’t help me on, to support IVF. It's legal in every state. I don't know any Republican who doesn't support IVF, personally. But Schumer's going to have these show votes and this one, he had a vote on IVF…But actually what is, was a vote to take away religious freedoms. It was a completely unnecessary vote, but he wanted to have a vote.’” [BN9, 6/17/24]

Scott Introduced A Resolution Supporting IVF, But The Resolution Did Little To Actually protect The Procedure 

Scott Introduced A Resolution Supporting IVF. According to a press release from Senator Rick Scott, “Today, Senator Rick Scott introduced a resolution in the U.S. Senate expressing support for Americans who are starting and growing families through in vitro fertilization (IVF). Representative Kat Cammack (FL-3) is leading the resolution in the House of Representatives. Senator Rick Scott said, ‘IVF is a wonderful thing that enables so many Americans struggling with infertility to have children and start a family. I have friends and family members who have used IVF and so do countless Floridians and Americans. While IVF remains available in all 50 states, I believe it is important for the Senate to make clear our unwavering support for current and aspiring parents using IVF to start and grow their families. I am proud to lead this resolution in the Senate and glad to have Representative Kat Cammack’s support in the House of Representatives.’” [Press Release – Senator Rick Scott, 3/6/24]

Scott Supported The Hyde Amendment And Restricting Government Funding From Abortion

Scott: “Congress Should Not Throw Away The Hyde Amendment And Force American Taxpayers To Fund The Widespread Destruction Of Innocent Life.” According to an op-ed by Scott the National Review, “That’s why, as governor of Florida, I signed legislation to authorize permanent funding for crisis pregnancy centers, which support mothers and fathers every step of the way. It’s why I signed legislation to limit state funding for abortion clinics, such as Planned Parenthood, which do not share the common belief that all life is valuable. And it’s why I required physicians who perform abortions to have admitting privileges at nearby hospitals – a reasonable standard to protect health and safety. Congress should not throw away the Hyde Amendment and force American taxpayers to fund the widespread destruction of innocent life. Congress should instead find ways to cut taxes, cut spending, and support priorities important to all American families — and that certainly doesn’t include requiring every American to fund abortions.” [National Review – Rick Scott, 10/6/20]

2019: Scott Voted To Invoke Cloture For Legislation Prohibiting Federal Funds From Funding Abortions Or Health Benefits Covering Abortions. In January 2019, Scott voted to invoke cloture for a bill that, according to Congressional Quarterly, “prohibit[ed] federal funds from being used to fund abortions or to fund health benefits covering abortions.” The vote was on a motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to the bill. The Senate rejected the motion, thereby defeating the bill, by a vote of 48 to 47. [Senate Vote 7, 1/17/19; Congressional Quarterly, 1/17/19; Congressional Actions, S. 109]

2021: Scott Voted For An Amendment That Would Be Consistent With Hyde And Weldon Amendments And Prohibit Federal Funding For Abortion Services Or Prohibit Federal Funds To States And Localities That Penalize Entities That Do Not Cover Abortions. In August 2021, Scott voted for an amendment which would, according to Congressional Quarterly, “create a deficit-neutral reserve fund to allow for legislation related to improving health programs, including to prohibit federal funding for abortions or federal funding to state or local governments that discriminate against entities that do not provide, cover or refer for abortions, consistent with the Hyde and Weldon amendments.” The vote was on the adoption of an amendment. The Senate adopted the amendment by a vote of 50-49. [Senate Vote 336, 8/10/21; Congressional Quarterly, 8/10/21; Congressional Actions, S.Amdt. 3792; Congressional Actions, S.Con.Res.14]

2021: Scott Joined Senate Republicans In Re-Introducing The Protecting Life And Taxpayer Act. According to Senator Marsha Blackburn press release, “U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), James Inhofe (R-Okla.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), and Tim Scott (R-S.C.) reintroduced the Protecting Life and Taxpayers Act to help end taxpayer support for the abortion industry. [...] ‘As a father and a grandfather, I value all life, including the unborn, and believe every child deserves to be welcomed with open and loving arms,’ said Senator Rick Scott. ‘It’s wrong for Congress to force Americans to fund the widespread destruction of innocent life. That’s why I’m proud to join Senator Blackburn to introduce the Protecting Life and Taxpayers Act to prevent American taxpayer dollars from being used to fund abortions.’” [Sen. Marsha Blackburn Press Release, 7/1/21]

Scott Voted To Prohibit American Rescue Plan Funds From Being Used For Abortions

2021: Scott Voted For An Amendment To Block The American Rescue Plan Funds From Being Used For Abortion. In March 2021, according to Congressional Quarterly, Scott voted for the “motion to waive all applicable sections of the Congressional Budget Act with respect to the Murray, D-Wash., point of order that the Lankford amendment no. 1031 to the Schumer, D-N.Y., substitute amendment no. 891 to the bill is not germane and thus violates section 313(b)(1)(d) of the Congressional Budget Act. The amendment would make conforming changes to insert the bill's provisions related to public health programs and domestic violence prevention and support programs into the December 2020 omnibus appropriations and coronavirus relief law, which would prohibit the use of funds for abortion services.” The vote was on a motion to waive. The Senate failed to acquire a 3/5 majority and rejected the motion by a vote of 52-47. [Senate Vote 94, 3/6/21; Congressional Quarterly, 3/6/21; Congressional Actions, S.Amdt. 1031; Congressional Actions, S.Amdt. 891; Congressional Actions, H.R. 1319]

Scott Voted For An Amendment That Would Prohibit Funding For Abortions Of Fetus’s With Down Syndrome 

2021: Scott Voted For An Amendment That Prohibit Funding For Down Syndrome Abortions Or Other Chromosomal Conditions. In August 2021, Rick Scott voted for an amendment which would, according to Congressional Quarterly, “create a deficit-neutral reserve fund to allow for legislation related to improving health programs, including to prohibit funding for abortions of unborn children with Down syndrome or other chromosomal conditions.” The vote was on the adoption of an amendment. The Senate rejected the amendment by a vote of 49-50. [Senate Vote 350, 8/11/21; Congressional Quarterly, 8/11/21; Congressional Actions, S.Amdt. 3331; Congressional Actions, S.Con.Res.14]

2016: Scott Signed Legislation Prohibiting Any State Funds From Going To Any Service By An Organization That Also provides Abortions

Scott Signed Legislation Prohibiting Any State Funds From Going To Any Service By An Organization That Also Provides Abortions. According to the Associated Press, “The abortion bill (HB 1411) is similar to legislation being challenged in court in other states, including Texas. State and federal laws already prohibit public money for abortion but this goes a step further by preventing any state funds from going to any service by an organization that also provides abortions.” [Associated Press, 3/25/16]

April 2016: Federal Health Officials Said Florida Cannot Block Medicaid Money From Abortion Clinics

April 2016: Center For Medicaid And CHIP Services Said That States Like Florida Cannot Block Medicaid Money From Abortion Clinics. According to the Tampa Bay Times, “States like Florida can’t block Medicaid money from abortion clinics, federal officials said in a letter to state health officials Tuesday. ‘Providing the full range of women’s health services neither disqualifies a provider from participating in the Medicaid program, nor is the provision of such services inconsistent with the best interests of the beneficiary and shall not be grounds for a state’s action against a provider,’ Vikki Wachino, director of the Center for Medicaid and CHIP Services, wrote in the letter, which was also sent to groups representing the nation’s governors, state lawmakers and public health officials. Translation: You can’t exempt Planned Parenthood or any other abortion clinic from Medicaid just for being an abortion clinic.” [Tampa Bay Times, 4/19/16]

June – August 2016: Federal Judge Blocked Florida Law Barring Money From Going To Abortion Clinic

June 2016: Federal Judge Issued An Injunction Ordering The State To Maintain Contracts For Preventive Care With Abortion Clinics Including Planned Parenthood. According to the Tampa Bay Times, “A federal judge late Thursday night blocked parts of a controversial abortion law within hours of it going into effect. The injunction, written by U.S. District Court Judge Robert Hinkle, orders the state to maintain contracts for preventive care with abortion clinics including Planned Parenthood and prevents a new rule that would require 50 percent of all abortion clinic records to be reviewed by the state each year. Hinkle’s ruling simply blocks these parts of the law from going into effect while the case is argued or unless a higher court overturns his decision. He wrote in the opinion that he expects the defunding and record inspection provisions will likely be ruled unconstitutional.” [Tampa Bay Times, 6/30/16]

Federal Judge Made Permanent The Earlier Decision To Order The State To Maintain Contracts For Preventive Care With Abortion Clinics. According to the Tampa Bay Times, “A federal judge on Thursday threw out key parts of an abortion restriction law that would have blocked all state funding to clinics such as Planned Parenthood and required the inspection of as many as 35,000 women’s health records. U.S. District Judge Robert Hinkle made permanent an earlier decision to temporarily halt those portions of the law from going into effect while a lawsuit filed against the state by Planned Parenthood was ongoing. Earlier this month, the two parties reached an agreement to end the suit. In it, health officials agreed to the terms of Hinkle’s earlier ruling. […] In his earlier ruling, Hinkle said that portion of the law discouraged clinics from performing abortions, which he said is unconstitutional. ‘You can’t defund based on exercising a constitutional right,’ he told lawyers for the state during a court hearing in June He also threw out a requirement that the state review records for half of the abortions performed each year, which generally exceeds 70,000.” [Tampa Bay Times, 8/18/16]

2016: Scott Signed A TRAP Law With Several Restrictions On Abortion

Scott Signed Legislation Adding New Restrictions On Abortion And Prohibiting State Money From Going To Planned Parenthood. According to the Associated Press State & Local, “Florida Gov. Rick Scott signed a bill Friday that adds new restrictions on abortion and prohibits state money from going to Planned Parenthood. The measure was among 68 bills he signed into law, including one that would expand the use of medical marijuana to terminal patients.” [Associated Press State & Local, 3/25/16]

Federal Judge Blocked The Provision Requiring That The State Inspect Patient Records

Federal Judge Blocked A Provision Requiring The State Inspect Patient Records. According to the Tampa Bay Times, “A federal judge late Thursday night blocked parts of a controversial law that would have eliminated taxpayer funding of preventive care at abortion clinics and required the state to inspect patient records of as many as 35,000 women. U.S. District Judge Robert Hinkle sided with Planned Parenthood when he ordered the state to restore contracts with abortion clinics and to halt plans to inspect abortion records for half of the more than 70,000 patients a year who have the procedure done in Florida.” [Tampa Bay Times, 7/2/16]

Federal Judge Definitively Blocked The Florida Abortion Law To Prevent State Funds From Going To Organizations That Provide Abortions. According to the Associated Press, “A federal judge on Thursday definitively blocked a Florida abortion law to prevent state funds from going to organizations that provide abortions - after the administration of Gov. Rick Scott made the unusual decision to drop further legal action. U.S. District Judge Robert Hinkle had placed a temporary hold on the challenged portions of the law hours before the law took effect last June. The sweeping law also was designed to greatly increase inspection requirements for abortion clinics. Planned Parenthood challenged three parts of the law. But instead of taking the case to trial and offering additional evidence or legal arguments, attorneys for the Scott administration agreed to forgo further legal action. They filed a joint motion with the plaintiffs earlier this month agreeing to end the litigation. Hinkle held a brief hearing to discuss the move and issued his final ruling hours later.” [Associated Press, 8/19/16]

Scott Signed Legislation Prohibiting Abortion Coverage Sold Through Health Insurance Exchanges

Scott Signed Legislation That Prohibits Health Care Plans Created Through The Federal Health Care Law From Covering Abortions. According to the Bradenton Herald, “Scott also signed off on HB 97, a bill that prohibits health care plans created through the federal health care law from covering abortions, and HB 411, which exempts photos, videos and recordings depicting deaths from public records. Rep. Rachel Burgin, R-Riverview, introduced that bill after the deaths of two Tampa police officers were captured on a dashboard camera.” [Bradenton Herald, 6/3/11]

Legislation Banned Abortion Coverage From Policies Sold Through Health Insurance Exchanges. According to the Sarasota Herald Tribune, “In other bill action on Thursday, Scott approved: […] HB 97, banning abortion coverage from policies sold through health insurance exchanges -- a type of insurance marketplace that is scheduled to start operating in 2014 as part of last year’s federal health law.” [Sarasota Herald Tribune, 6/3/11]

Scott Supported So-Called “Born Alive” Legislation

2019: Scott Sponsored The Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act. According to Scott’s official press release, “Today, Senator Rick Scott announced that he will co-sponsor S.130, the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act. Senator Scott signed similar legislation into law as Governor of Florida in 2013. Senator Rick Scott said, ‘I’m proud to support the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act and will always fight to protect children. The recent embrace of late-term abortion by the New York State Legislature and infanticide by Virginia Governor Ralph Northam is shocking, and exactly why we must take action to protect the most vulnerable among us. ‘As a father and grandfather, every child is a special gift who deserves to be welcomed into the world with open and loving arms. This should not be a political fight and all my colleagues should support this important legislation to make sure all babies are valued.” [Sen. Rick Scott Press Release, 2/7/19]

2019: Scott Voted To Invoke Cloture For The Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act. In February 2019, Scott voted to invoke cloture a bill that would have, according to Congressional Quarterly, “require health care practitioners to provide medical care to any infant that survives an abortion procedure, to the extent legally required for any infant born at the same gestational age.” The vote was on a motion to invoke cloture, which required 60 affirmative votes. The Senate rejected the motion by a vote of 53 to 44. [Senate Vote 27, 2/25/19; Congressional Quarterly, 2/25/19; Congressional Actions, S. 311]

2021: Scott Voted For A Budget Amendment That Would Create Penalties For Health Care Providers Who Do Not Provide The Same Medical Treatment To An Infant Who Survived An Abortion As Babies Born At The Same Gestational Age. In February 2021, Scott voted for, according to Congressional Quarterly, the “motion to waive all applicable sections of the Congressional Budget Act with respect to the Durbin, D-Ill., point of order that the Sasse amendment no. 192 amendment is not germane and thus violates section 305(b)(2) of the Budget Act. The amendment would create a deficit-neutral reserve fund to allow for legislation related to improving health care, including legislation to establish criminal and civil penalties for health care providers who do not provide the same degree of medical care for an infant who survives an abortion procedure as would be provided to another infant born at the same gestational age.” The vote was on a motion to waive. The Senate rejected the motion, failing to acquire 3/5 of the vote, by a vote of 52-48. [Senate Vote 23, 2/4/21; Congressional Quarterly, 2/4/21; Congressional Actions, S.Amdt 192; Congressional Actions, S.Con.Res. 5]

Scott Attacked Democrats Twice For Blocking Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act

2020: Scott Attacked Democrats For Blocking Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act. According to a press release from Scott’s office, “Senator Rick Scott said, ‘Today’s votes should have been common sense – the unborn and newly-born infants are the most vulnerable among us and deserve to be welcomed with open arms. By voting against these two bills, Democrats showed how far they have shifted in their stance on abortion. Today, Democrats stood for radical, late-term abortion and infanticide, rather than to preserve the right to life for defenseless children. Their decision is horrific and shameful. I will always stand for the unborn and oppose the radical abortion agenda of today’s Democrat Party.’” [Sen. Rick Scott Press Release, 2/25/20]

2019: Scott Said Democrats Were “Beholden To The Extremist Views Of Their Party” After Blocking The Born-Alive Survivors Protection Act. According to a press release from Scott’s office, “Senator Rick Scott said, ‘Democrats once again decided to put politics above the safety of newborn babies and voted to block a common sense bill that simply requires doctors to provide medical care to all babies born alive. It is shocking that anyone would refuse to take action to protect the most vulnerable among us – and while I’m disappointed, it’s now more clear than ever that Democrats are beholden to the extremists in their party. Voting against this bill is tantamount to supporting infanticide. It’s extraordinarily sad to see members of the United States Senate take this position.’” [Sen. Rick Scott Press Release, 2/25/19]

Scott Signed Similar Legislation While Governor Of Florida

2013: Scott Signed HB 1129, Which Stated If An Infant Was Born During An Attempted Abortion The Child Was Entitled To The Same Rights As Any Other Child Born Alive. According to the Tampa Bay Times, “Gov. Rick Scott signed a bill into law on Wednesday requiring that doctors performing an abortion offer emergency medical care if the baby is somehow born alive. Scott was joined by his wife Ann and antiabortion activists from around the state as he signed HB 1129 at the Florida Baptist Children's Home's Pensacola campus in Cantonment, a nonprofit organization that supports pregnancy resource centers and provides services for children who are neglected, abused or abandoned. […] The new law, which takes effect July 1, calls for care ‘appropriate for the gestational age of the infant.’ It states that an infant born alive ‘during or immediately after attempted abortion is entitled to the same rights, powers, and privileges as any other child born alive in course of natural birth’ and ensures an infant is ‘transported to a hospital.’ A violation of the law is a first-degree misdemeanor punishable by a year in jail, a $1,000 fine or both. Health care practitioners, as well as employees of hospitals, physicians' offices and abortion clinics, must report all known violations to the Department of Health.” [Tampa Bay Tribune, 6/5/13]

Scott Signed Into Law Legislation Permanently Funding Anti-Abortion Crisis Pregnancy Centers In Florida

2018: Scott Signed A Bill Which Would Help Permanently Fund Anti-Abortion Centers In Florida. According to the Associated Press, “Florida will permanently fund anti-abortion pregnancy centers. Gov. Rick Scott signed the bill (HB 41) on Monday. It was heavily favored by Republicans and opposed by Democrats. Florida legislators have set aside money for the pregnancy centers since 2006, but the $4 million had to be renewed each year in the annual budget. Democrats argued that the state shouldn’t fund religious organizations or pregnancy centers that don’t provide a full range of services. Republicans said that the state would simply be helping to care for women who chose to go through with their pregnancies. Service providers can include faith-based organizations, but they can’t promote religious content nor use state money on other religious messages.” [Associated Press, 3/19/18]

Scott Signed Legislation Directing Proceeds From “Choose Life” License Plates To Crisis Pregnancy Centers

Scott Signed Legislation Changing The Way Funds Are Distributed From The Sales Of “Choose Life” Auto Tags. According to the Associated Press, “The measure was among 46 bills Scott signed into law including a measure that reduces penalties for minors caught ‘sexting’ explicit images. Some of the other bills will make fighting dogs more adoptable, crack down on credit and debit card theft and change the way funds are distributed from the sale of ‘Choose Life’ auto tags that are popular among abortion opponents.” [Associated Press, 6/21/11]

Scott Signed Legislation Increasing Penalties For Harming A Fetus While Committing A Crime

Scott Signed Legislation Increasing Penalties For Harming A Fetus While Committing A Crime. According to the Miami Herald, “Scott also signed into law increased penalties for harming a fetus while committing a crime, a response to the case of a Tampa man who tricked his girlfriend into taking an abortion drug that resulted in a miscarriage. Florida joins 23 other states that allow offenders to be charged separately for causing the death of a fetus at any stage of development.” [Miami Herald, 6/20/14]

Scott Co-Sponsored Legislation That Allowed Pregnant Mothers To Receive Child Support Payments While They Are Pregnant

Scott Co-Sponsored Legislation That Would Allow Pregnant Mothers To Receive Child Support Payments While They Are Pregnant. According to a press release from Cramer’s office, “U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Representative Mike Johnson (R-LA-04) introduced bicameral legislation, the Unborn Child Support Act, to give mothers the ability to receive child support payments while they are pregnant.[…] Joining Senator Cramer and Representative Johnson are Senators Steve Daines (R-MT), Jim Inhofe (R-OK), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Rick Scott (R-FL), Roger Marshall (R-KS), James Lankford (R-OK), Roger Wicker (R-MS), and Marco Rubio (R-FL).[…] ‘No mom should have to worry about carrying the responsibility of caring for their child alone. Support for a child should start at the moment of conception, when life truly begins. This good bill makes sure that federal law reflects this important principle,’ said Senator Scott.” [Sen. Kevin Cramer Press Release, 7/13/22]

Scott Altered His Stance On The Florida Abortion Ban

Scott Said He Would Support A 15-Week State Abortion Ban

Scott Said He Would Support Replacing Florida’s Six-Week Abortion Ban With A 15-Week Abortion Ban. According to The Hill, “Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) says he would support replacing Florida’s six-week state abortion ban with a 15-week statewide ban that he believes would reflect broader consensus within the Sunshine State over how to protect unborn life. Scott says any 15-week statewide abortion ban should include the standard exceptions for cases of rape, incest and to protect the life of the mother. Scott, who is running for reelection for a second Senate term, says he remains staunchly ‘pro-life’ and signed ‘every pro-life bill that came in front of me’ while he served as Florida governor from 2011 to 2019.” [Hill, 4/15/24]

Scott Agreed With Trump That States Should Decide Abortion Access

Scott Agreed With Trump That States Should Decide Abortion Access. According to the New York Times, “Senator Rick Scott of Florida, a former two-term governor of that state and former chairman of the Senate Republican campaign arm who is running for re-election, shares Mr. Trump’s view that states should decide abortion access, McKinley P. Lewis, a spokesman for Mr. Scott, said in an email. During an appearance on NBC’s ‘Meet the Press’ about a month before the midterm elections in 2022, Mr. Scott said that he supported ‘reasonable’ abortion restrictions, and that ‘there’s arguments to do it at the federal level.’” [New York Times, 4/9/24]

Scott Said He Will Vote Against The State Ballot Initiative To Protect Abortion Rights And Reaffirmed His Agreement With Trump That Abortion Restrictions Should Be Decided By States. According to The Hill, “Scott told The Washington Post last week that he plans to vote against the state ballot initiative to protect abortion rights and said he agreed with former President Trump’s statement that abortion restrictions should be decided by the states.” [Hill, 4/15/24]

Scott Attacked Legislation To Protect And Expand Access To Sexual And Reproductive Health

Women’s Health Protection Act

2022: Scott Called The Women’s Health Protection Act “The Most Dangerous And Radical Pro-Abortion Legislation Considered In Congress.” According to a press release via Senator Rick Scott, “Senator Rick Scott said, “Today, Senate Democrats are going to try to advance some of the most dangerous and radical pro-abortion legislation considered in Congress. It really should be called the Abortion On Demand Until Birth Act because this bill will allow unborn babies to be killed at any time for any reason, and will make it impossible for any legislature to pass laws that protect the sanctity of life and help unborn children. As Governor of Florida, I was proud to sign pro-life legislation and protect the unborn, but now radical leftists are leading an assault on human dignity and on pro-life state laws, and are trying to force their evil and inhumane agenda on the entire country. Here is an indisputable fact: abortion kills innocent children. To deny that is to deny science. Every child is created in the image of God and deserves to be welcomed with open and loving arms. The Senate must defeat this and every other attack on the unborn.” [Sen. Rick Scott Press Release, 2/28/22]

Scott Voted Against A Motion To Invoke Cloture To Proceed On The Women’s Health Protection Act Of 2021

2022: Scott Voted Against A Motion To Invoke Cloture To Proceed On The Women's Health Protection Act Of 2021, Which Would Codify The Right For Health Care Providers To Provide Abortion Services And The Right For Patients To Receive Abortion Services. In May 2022, according to Congressional Quarterly, Scott voted against the “motion to invoke cloture on the Schumer motion to proceed to the bill that would statutorily establish that health care providers have a right to provide and patients have a right to receive abortion services.” The vote was on a motion to invoke cloture. The Senate rejected the motion by a vote of 49-51. [Senate Vote 170, 5/11/22; Congressional Quarterly, 5/11/22; Congressional Actions, H.R. 3755]

2022: Scott Voted Against The Motion To Invoke Cloture On The Women's Health Protection Act Of 2021, Which Would Protect The Right To Abortion Access And Prohibit Restrictions On Abortion. In February 2022, according to Congressional Quarterly, Scott voted against the “motion to invoke cloture (thus limiting debate) on the Schumer, D-N.Y., motion to proceed to the bill.” The vote was on a motion to invoke cloture. The Senate rejected the motion by a vote of 46-48. [Senate Vote 65, 2/28/22; Congressional Quarterly, 2/28/22; Congressional Actions, H.R. 3755]

Scott Opposed Contraception Mandate

Scott Opposed A Compromise That If A Religious Employer Objected To Providing Birth Control In Its Health Plan, The Employer Would Not Have To Pay For It, But The Insurance Company Would Pay. According to PolitiFact, “On Feb. 10, 2012, the White House announced a compromise: If a religious employer objected to providing birth control in its health plan, the employer would not have to pay for it, but the insurance company would pay. The next day, Newsmax TV asked Scott his thoughts about that decision while he attended the Conservative Political Action Conference. Scott said: ‘This week what they did with regard to the Catholic Church and the contraceptives, it’s an example [of] when government gets more involved in something they take away your rights. And this is, they are telling the Catholic Church what they have to buy. The government should not be telling us what type of insurance we should buy with our own money. The change they made makes no sense -- saying the insurance company is going to pay for it? That makes no sense. Money is going to be coming out of the Catholic institutions’ pocket to buy that insurance, so they are paying for it.’” [PolitiFact, 9/11/14]

Scott On Hobby Lobby Decision: Supreme Court “Upheld Our Freedom Of Religion Again.” According to WUWF, “Saying the Supreme Court ‘upheld our freedom of religion again this week’, Scott made it clear how he stood on the recent Supreme Court decision on the Hobby Lobby case. The Governor was at the national Guard Armory handing out the Governor’s Veterans Service Award, which honors Floridians who have served in the U.S. Military. Well over 100 vets of all ages were awarded the medal. Don Gilford, an Air Force Veteran who served in Viet Nam appreciated the recognition, saying they didn’t ‘get much fanfare’ when they returned from Viet Nam.” [WUWF, 7/3/14]

Scott Penned Op-Ed Attacking Democrats On Abortion

Scott Questioned Why Reporters Were Not Asking Democrats When They Believe Life Begins, Said Since The Leaked Draft Opinion, That Democrats Have Come Out As “Abortion Extremists.” According to an op-ed by Scott in the Wall Street Journal, “So that raises the question: When do Democrats believe life begins? At conception? At viability? At birth? After birth? They won’t say. Even more disconcerting, reporters won’t ask them. It’s a dereliction of duty by the mainstream media not to push the question, and it’s an abdication of their responsibility to inform the American people and spur legitimate debate. Since the leaked draft opinion in the case of Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, Democrats have come out as the abortion extremists we’ve always known they are. They’ve staked out a position that is simply outside the mainstream of where average American voters are.” [Wall Street Journal – Rick Scott, 5/9/22]

Scott Attacked Democrats And Said Democratic Senate Candidates Have “Embraced” Legalizing Abortion Until The Moment Of Birth, Noted A Strong Response By Democrats On Pro-Choice Legislation And Views. According to an op-ed by Scott in the Wall Street Journal, “Democratic U.S. Senate candidates in swing states such as Pennsylvania, North Carolina and Wisconsin embraced legalizing abortion up until the moment of birth. Some, such as Ohio Rep. Tim Ryan, are refusing to say if there should be any restrictions on abortion whatever. In response to the leaked Supreme Court opinion, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer announced plans to move forward on yet another vote on the Women’s Health Protection Act, which would legalize abortion up until the moment of birth. Since taking majorities in both houses of Congress, Democrats have also rejected the longstanding bipartisan tradition of including the Hyde and Helms amendments in spending bills, which prevent taxpayer funding of abortions, including abortions overseas.” [Wall Street Journal – Rick Scott, 5/9/22]

Scott Said Pro-Choice Positions Were “Well Outside The Mainstream” And Quoted Recent NRSC Polling On Abortion. According to an op-ed by Scott in the Wall Street Journal, “All of these positions are well outside the mainstream of where American voters are. According to recent National Republican Senatorial Committee polling, 65% of Americans agree that taxpayer money shouldn’t be used to pay for abortions, while only 30% disagree. Only 30% of Americans agree that abortion should be legal any time, on demand and without apology, while 61% of voters disagree. Fifty-seven percent of Americans would be less likely to support abortion laws if the U.S. allows for abortion to be performed for any reason up until the moment of birth, which is the new Democratic Party line.” [Wall Street Journal – Rick Scott, 5/9/22]

Scott Refused To Say How He Would Vote On Potential Bills Codifying Birth Control Access And LGBTQ Marriage

Scott Refused To Say How He Would Vote On Potential Bills Codifying Birth Control Access And LGBTQ Marriage. According to Axios, “Still reeling from the Supreme Court's decision to end Roe v. Wade, congressional Democrats are readying legislation to codify nationwide contraceptive access, LGBTQ marriage and parenting rights — and even potentially long-settled precedent on interracial marriage. The question: Will Republicans go along, or block them? […] Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.), chair of the National Republican Senatorial Committee, said Democrats are ‘grasping at straws’ in an election that will be about inflation and rising costs. He declined to say how he'd vote, telling Axios that first ‘I want to see the bills.’” [Axios, 7/14/22]

Scott Called Democrats “Barbaric” For Opposing Abortion Limits And Pushed Lies That Democrats Supported “Crushing A Baby Skull”

Scott Said Democrats Were “Barbaric” For Fighting Against Limits On Abortion. According to The Hill, “But he says that ‘in Florida there’s way more consensus around 15 weeks with exceptions for rape, incest and the life of the mother.’ ‘So if I was writing a bill, I’d think that 15 weeks with the limitations [for rape, incest and to protect the life of the mother] is where the state’s at,’ he told The Hill in an interview. ‘I think it’s important we do what there’s consensus’ for. Scott says he’s not in any way backing away from his support for restricting abortion but wants to put the focus of the Senate campaign debate on Democrats who he claimed favor allowing abortions until shortly before birth. Abortions are rarely performed in the third trimester. ‘I’ve been pro-life, and I think we need to continue to the importance of being pro-life and I think the other thing is we ought to be very clear that Democrats are barbaric. They want — they’ve already voted to allow abortion up until the moment of birth,’ he said.” [Hill, 4/15/24]

[AUDIO] Scott Said Democrats Were Supporting “Crushing A Baby Skull” At Nine Months By Voting Against Abortion Restrictions. “First off, I wouldn't run against me because what's going to happen by the time you get if you get through the primary on the other, there's three Democrats running right now. If you get through the primary, I'm going to make sure everybody knows where you stand. Guess where the Democrats stand on abortion? They should say they should never want to talk about abortion because you know where they stand. They all voted to support crushing a baby skull and a nine-month term. They all voted to say a healthy baby born alive can just be left in the corner and die cry itself to death. So, look, I am pro contraception, I am pro IVF. I got a family member going through IVF. I think we all have. Reasonable limitations. It's a tough decision for moms. Anybody think about doing abortion, it’s a horrible choice they have to make.” [Anez Sez Podcast, 4/12/24] 

[AUDIO] Scott Said That Democrats Were “Extreme” On Abortion And Wanted Abortion Policies That Would Allow Them To “Crush A Baby’s Skull.” “And even look at on abortion. They they they're not where the public is. You know, the public is probably around 15 weeks with all the exceptions, like for the mother, rape and incest. There are abortions up until the moment birth. That means you crush a baby’s skull. So they think it's okay that you can let a baby, healthy baby born alive to just cries of the death in the corner that help with these guys are extreme and they want you to pay for everybody's abortion. So even abortion, if we explain their position, it's a winner for us.” [Bob Rose Show, 6/28/24]

Scott Was Caught On Video Saying That If Abortion Were Legal At Any Point, Women And Doctors Would “Crush” The “Skull” Of Babies Just Before They Were Born. According to MSN, “U.S. Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) is under fire over video of him baselessly telling students women and doctors would ‘crush’ the ‘skull’ of babies just minutes before they are born, if abortion were legal, apparently at nine months, or starve them to death immediately after. The secretly recorded video, reportedly recorded and leaked by a student, is going viral. ‘…you crush a baby’s skull,’ Scott says in the video (below), which has received over 400,000 views in under four hours. ‘A baby that would be born healthy and alive at nine months, two minutes before, okay, it could be crushed and killed,’ Scott can be heard saying in the video, remarks very similar to ones he has made before. NCRM has not verified the authenticity of the video or its context, which was posted to social media by attorney and MeidasTouch editor-in-chief Ron Filipkowski.” [MSN, 9/5/24]

2024: Scott Refused To Say How He Would Vote On Florida's Abortion Ballot Amendment

Scott Was Asked About The Abortion Amendment On The Ballot In November And Emphasized The Need For Clarity About What Specifically The Amendment Would Enshrine

[VIDEO] Scott Emphasized He Was Pro-Life And Said Voters Needed To Be Informed About What They Were Voting For. “WFLA noted the religious leaders support Scott’s stance on abortions. Scott spoke to reporters, ‘Well, I’m pro-life, first off.’ WFLA noted that Florida would have a ballot amendment this year around abortion. Scott said he appreciated the addition of language in the amendment that highlighted the financial impacts. Scott added, ‘But they ought to get informed. They ought to get informed exactly what's going to happen.’” [WFLA, 8/23/24]

[VIDEO] Scott Called Democrats Extreme On Abortion For Standing Against Any Abortion Restrictions. “The Democrats are extreme. They want abortions. They support allowing a baby born healthy, born alive to cry itself to death. I mean, just it's extreme. I mean, you just can't believe it.” [WFLA, 8/24/24]

Scott Said He Planned To Vote Against The Abortion Ballot Initiative But Refused To Admit That Meant He Supported Florida’s Six-Week Abortion Ban

[VIDEO] Scott Said He Planned To Vote Against The Abortion Ballot Initiative And Said Florida’s Process For Handling Abortion Was “The Right Process.” “Raju said, ‘So are you voting for the Florida abortion referendum?’ Scott: ‘No, I’m pro-life.’ Raju: ‘Do you wish Trump had said he’d veto a national abortion ban? Should he veto a national abortion ban?’ Scott replied, ‘So I can tell you what I believe. I believe it's a state issue. I think the Supreme Court made the right decision. And in fact , the states. I think what's happened in Florida is the right process, that we have a ballot initiative that the citizens of the state are going to get to choose. You know, the state has a law and they're going to get to choose a different one if they want a different one.’” [YouTube, Forbes Breaking News, 9/11/24]

[VIDEO] When Confronted With The Fact That Voting Against The Amendment Meant Supporting Florida’s Six-Week Abortion Ban, Scott Waffled On His Stance But Affirmed That He Would Vote Against The Initiative. “Raju: ‘You're good with six weeks?’ Scott explained how has always been ‘clear’ about this issue. Scott said, ‘If I was going to write the bill. And I think if you look at a consensus in Florida, is it probably if people are comfortable with 15 weeks, with exceptions all the way through next year where they're not comfortable with an extreme position, the Democrats, where they supported abortion up until the moment of birth and let the healthy baby alive die.’ Manu Raju: ‘So but six weeks of the law in your state. So if you vote against the referendum, you're keeping that on the books.’ Scott: ‘Well, I'm voting against a referendum.’” [YouTube, Forbes Breaking News, 9/11/24]

Scott Wanted To Ban Embryonic Stem Cell Research

As Governor, Scott Wanted To “Sign A Lifetime Ban” On Stem Cell Research

Scott Wanted To “Sign A Lifetime Ban On Embryonic Stem Cell Research.” According to the Tampa Bay Times, “Scott Spokewoman Jennifer Baker: So Bill McCollum takes campaign contributions from lobbyists for Planned Parenthood yet now attacks about abortion. What hypocrisy. The truth is, Rick is 100% pro-life and supports overturning of Roe v. Wade. Unlike Bill McCollum, Rick would sign a lifetime ban on embryonic stem cell research. No true defender of the unborn believes in discarding human embryos yet this is Mr. McCollum’s position. HCA abided by all conscience clauses including with hospitals that had Catholic, Baptist and other religious affiliations. HCA even lost a $43 million judgment when our doctors successfully fought to save the life of a special needs child even though the parents wanted the child to die. When a company is willing to lose that amount of money to save human life its position on life issues is clear and self-evident.” [Tampa Bay Times, 6/10/10]

Scott Supported A Ruling Against An Executive Order Aimed At The Expansion Of Federal Funding For Embryonic Stem Cell Research. According to a press release from Rick Scott for Florida, “A Federal judge today issued a temporary ban on the Obama Administration’s executive order aimed at the expansion of federal funding for embryonic stem-cell research. ‘We applaud the court’s decision to halt the Obama Administration’s attempt to expand federal funding of embryonic stem-cell research, this is a good result for those on side of life,’ said Scott campaign spokesman Jennifer Baker. ‘Voters should consider that just a few years ago, Bill McCollum went on the record saying this kind of destruction of life is ‘a pro-life position.’ We look forward to taking on Alex Sink as she tries to push Obama’s liberal pro-abortion agenda on Florida.’” [Press Release – Rick Scott For Florida, 8/24/10]

Scott Pushed Anti-Abortion Talking Points Through The NRSC While He Was Chair

Scott Circulated An NRSC Memo On Anti-Abortion Talking Points For Senate Republicans And Republican Candidates

NRSC Talking Points State That “Americans Want To Welcome Every New Baby Into The World” And Includes Language To Avoid Abortions, Give States More Flexibility To Implement Abortion Restriction, Encourage Adoptions Over Abortions, And Care For And Support Pregnant Women In Difficult Circumstances

The NRSC Memo Said “Americans Are Compassionate People Who Want To Welcome Every New Baby Into The World”, Noted Most Americans Agree, “Abortion Should Be Avoided As Much As Possible,” “States Should Have The Flexibility To Implement Reasonable Restrictions,” “We Should Do All We Can To Encourage More Adoptions And Fewer Abortions,” And “We Should Care For And Support Pregnant Women In Difficult Circumstances.” According to Axios, “BE THE COMPASSIONATE, CONSENSUS BUILDER ON ABORTION POLICY  While people have many different views on abortion policy, Americans are compassionate people who want to welcome every new baby into the world. Most Americans agree that:  • Abortion should be avoided as much as possible.  • States should have the flexibility to implement reasonable restrictions.  • We should do all we can to encourage more adoptions and fewer abortions.  • We should care for and support pregnant women in difficult circumstances.” [Axios, 5/3/22] 

NRSC Talking Points Attack Democrats For Their “Extremist Views”, Note Democrats “Demand Taxpayers Pay For Abortions” And That Democrats Have “Opposed Every Abortion Restriction Over The Past 50 Years”

The NRSC Memo Said To “Expose Democrats For The Extreme Views They Hold” Including Democrats “Demand Taxpayers Pay For Abortions,” And That Democrats Have Opposed “Every Single Restriction On Abortion For Nearly 50 Years.” According to Axios, “EXPOSE THE DEMOCRATS FOR THE EXTREME VIEWS THEY HOLD Joe Biden and the Democrats have extreme and radical views on abortion that are outside of the mainstream of most Americans.  • They support late term abortions.  • They demand that taxpayers pay for abortions.  • They want abortions to be on demand and oppose any and all reasonable restrictions, such as prohibiting abortion for gender selection reasons, or even limiting abortion to the first trimester.  • In fact, they have opposed every single restriction on abortion for nearly 50 years. Restrictions on late term abortions, gender selection abortions, medical safety regulations for abortion clinics – all are strongly opposed by the radical left.” [Axios, 5/3/22]

NRSC Talking Points Included Language To “Forcefully Refute Democrat Lies Regarding GOP Positions On Abortion And Women’s Health Care,” Noted Republicans “DO NOT” Want To Take Away Contraception, Mammograms, Or Throw Doctors Or Women In Jail

NRSC Talking Points Included Language To “Forcefully Refute Democrat Lies Regarding GOP Positions On Abortion And Women’s Health Care,” Noted Republicans “DO NOT” Want To Take Away Contraception, Mammograms, Or Throw Doctors Or Women In Jail. According to Axios, “FORCEFULLY REFUTE DEMOCRAT LIES REGARDING GOP POSITIONS ON ABORTION AND WOMEN’S HEALTH CARE Joe Biden and the Democrats have and will continue to spread lies about where Republicans stand on abortion and women’s health care. The facts:  • Republicans DO NOT want to take away contraception.  • Republicans DO NOT want to take away mammograms or other health care provided specifically to women.  • Republicans DO NOT want to throw doctors and women in jail. Mothers should be held harmless under the law.” [Axios, 5/3/22]

NRSC Talking Points Memo Included Language Showing That Americans Support “Reasonable Restrictions” On Abortion, Noted That Science Has Progressed Since Roe v. Wade Including “Unborn Babies Can Feel Pain Early” And “Modern Sonograms Show Unborn Babies Smiling, Yawning, And Sucking Their Thumbs”

NRSC Talking Points Memo Included Language Showing That Americans Support “Reasonable Restrictions” On Abortion, Noted That Science Has Progressed Since Roe v. Wade Including “Unborn Babies Can Feel Pain Early” And “Modern Sonograms Show Unborn Babies Smiling, Yawning, And Sucking Their Thumbs”, And Joe Biden And Democrats Reject Late Term Abortion Restrictions. According to Axios, “AMERICANS SUPPORT REASONABLE RESTRICTIONS ON ABORTION If Roe v. Wade is overturned, state and local officials closest to the people will make laws that reflect the will of their states. Some states like California will allow abortion on demand at any time for any reason; other states will place reasonable restrictions on abortion. • Elected officials, not unelected judges, should reflect the consensus of the people. • Science has progressed since Roe v. Wade. Today, we know: o Unborn babies can feel pain very early. o After six weeks, we can hear their heartbeat.  o Modern sonograms show unborn babies smiling, yawning, and sucking their thumbs.  • Restricting late term abortions is a reasonable consensus position, but Joe Biden and the Democrats reject both reason and consensus on this issue.” [Axios, 5/3/22]

NRSC Talking Points Memo Included Language To “Call Out” Democrats For Using “Obsession Over Abortion” To Avoid Talking About Their Record, Noted Democratic Policies Were “So Absurd” That They Would Rather Talk About Abortion, Attacked Biden And Democrats On Economic Policies.

NRSC Talking Points Memo Included Language To “Call Out” Democrats For Using “Obsession Over Abortion” To Avoid Talking About Their Record, Noted Democratic Policies Were “So Absurd” That They Would Rather Talk About Abortion, Attacked Biden And Democrats On Economic Policies. According to Axios, “CALL DEMOCRATS OUT FOR USING OBSESSION OVER ABORTION TO AVOID TALKING ABOUT THEIR RECORD  • Democrats hold extreme views on abortion that are out of the mainstream. But, their other policies are so absurd that they would rather talk about abortion.  • Biden and the Democrats are making every American poorer, less safe, more dependent on other countries for energy, and making America weaker.  • Inflation is skyrocketing, gas prices are rising, crime is raging and our southern border is in crisis.  • But Democrats want to obsess and spread lies about abortion because they’ve not only failed to address the concerns of the American people; their agenda has made things worse.  • While Democrats are voting nearly 100% of the time with Joe Biden and Chuck Schumer, Republicans are focused on getting the economy back on track and keeping your family safe.” [Axios, 5/3/22]

NRSC Talking Points Memo Included A Sample Republican Ad Attacking Democrats On Abortion, “I’m Pro-Life, But In Reality, Forget About The Political Labels, All Of Us Are In Favor Of Life”

NRSC Talking Points Memo Included A Sample Republican Ad Attacking Democrats On Abortion, “I’m Pro-Life, But In Reality, Forget About The Political Labels, All Of Us Are In Favor Of Life.” According to Axios,  “• Sarah Republican here. You know me, I’m the person John Democrat attacks all the time. • The problem with Mr. Democrat is that he just doesn’t seem to care about the truth.  • I’m not in favor of putting women or doctors in jail. I would never take away anyone’s contraception or health care. That’s just the typical BS you get from politicians.  • Here’s my view – I am pro-life, but in reality, forget about the political labels, all of us are in favor of life.  • I believe all Americans want to welcome every child into life with open arms. But if you disagree with me, my door’s always open, I’m always willing to listen. • Science makes it very clear that unborn babies feel pain, they suck their thumbs, and their heartbeat can be heard after a month of pregnancy.  • I believe we must make it easier for women facing difficult circumstances to choose adoption instead of abortion. And if that means they need some assistance, we should help them protect these lives.  • I’m Sarah Republican, the gift of life is the greatest thing each of us has ever received. I approve this message.” [Axios, 5/3/22]

Scott Attacked Companies Who Attempted To Protect Employees’ Access To Abortion 

Scott Joined Republican Senators In Calling For The U.S. Senate To Terminate Its Contract With CitiBank Over The Company’s Promise To Pay For Employees To Obtain Out Of State Abortions

Daily Wire: Scott Joined Republican Senators In Calling For The U.S. Senate To Terminate Its Contract With Citibank Over The Company’s Promise To Pay For Employees To Obtain Out Of State Abortions. According to the Daily Wire, “Republican Montana Sen. Steve Daines is leading Republicans in calling on the United States Senate to terminate its contract with Citibank over the company’s promise to pay for employees to obtain out of state abortions. ‘Citi’s decision to finance abortion tourism for its employees in brazen circumvention of State law, shows a reckless disregard for the lives of preborn children and disdain for the will of the people of the States in which Citi acts as an employer,’ Daines wrote in a letter to the Senate Sergeant at Arms, first obtained by The Daily Wire, signed by senators Roger Marshall of Kansas, Kevin Cramer of North Dakota, Ted Cruz of Texas, Marco Rubio of Florida, Roger Wicker of Mississippi, Mike Braun of Indiana, Cindy Hyde-Smith of Mississippi, Rick Scott of Florida, and James Lankford of Oklahoma. The Sergeant at Arms distributes Citibank credit cards to all members of the United States Senate, including the leadership and committee offices, to pay for ‘flights, office supplies, and other goods using taxpayer funds,’ Daines said in the letter. The lawmaker references Citibank’s promise that ‘in response to changes in reproductive healthcare laws in certain states in the U.S., beginning in 2022’ it would ‘provide travel benefits to facilitate access to adequate resources,’ after the passage of Texas’s SB 8 which banned abortions after the unborn baby has a heartbeat.” [Daily Wire, 4/29/22]