A change in the definition of rape?!

**Red'sGirl** · 02-01-2011, 10:31 AM

O.K., granted that this is the definition of rape in regards to whom can get an abortion, but this is just crazy to me.

I need someone to make sense of this.

"The House GOP's Plan to Redefine Rape," Mother Jones, January 28, 2011
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=205936&id=...18-mfjnEJx&t=5

So it says that government funds cannot be used for abortions except in instance of rape, incest, or if the life of the mother is in danger. Got it. But they are trying to redefine what RAPE is. The bill says that rape is just FORCIBLE rape, not statutory rape or COERCED rape (ie you were given a roofie (sp?) or excessive alcohol and could not consent).

I cannot understand why anyone would limit this definition of rape as if there are degrees in rape. You were either raped or you weren't. If someone slips me something in a drink and I lose my ability to make a choice, I was still raped.

It seems to me this is aimed at "promiscuous" women, ie women who are ever at bars, or 16 yr old on the internet (who are so prone to older men preying on them). What about the women who, when presented with a weapon, don't fight it? If they don't SHOW force, are they covered? Or do we now tell women that you have to risk your life and force the person to harm you, if you want anyone to believe you were raped.

I know I'm missing something, so I come to you all to explain it to me because I'm too upset to think straight.

**laura** · 02-01-2011, 10:33 AM

I... what?!

**boilermaker** · 02-01-2011, 10:41 AM

I can't do anything except shake my head.
Idiots. Plain and simple idiots.

**BusyBee21** · 02-01-2011, 10:50 AM

Red, I don't even know what to say other than I hope that this appalling bill gets squashed pronto. Wow.

**Red'sGirl** · 02-01-2011, 10:55 AM

I really can't believe it. It's spearheaded by Congressman Chris Brown of New Jersey. He seems to have a lot of bills regarding foreign policy, and veterans affairs, but this one just makes me see red (no pun intended).

**mcgwigan** · 02-01-2011, 11:29 AM

There are no words....WTF?

**Mellow_Water1** · 02-01-2011, 11:30 AM

I can't see how anyone could possibly support this bill unless hellbent on attacking women's right to choose.

Apparently reproductive biology as a whole trumps women's rights.

**Red'sGirl** · 02-01-2011, 11:55 AM

Originally Posted by Mellow_Water1

I can't see how anyone could possibly support this bill unless hellbent on attacking women's right to choose.

Apparently reproductive biology as a whole trumps women's rights.

To date, 173 Congresspersons are supporting this bill (all in GOP, I believe, but I'm looking).

**mcgwigan** · 02-01-2011, 12:15 PM

So it says that government funds cannot be used for abortions except in instance of rape, incest, or if the life of the mother is in danger.

They aren't taking away the right to choose...just if you can't pay for it your self then your stuck....right?

Still don't see how they can change the definition of rape though!

ETA: the whole thing stinks, really!