Yes on Prop. 4

Currently in California, a girl under the age of 18 can legally obtain an abortion without the knowledge or consent of her parents. However, if the following day she wishes to get her ears pierced or needs an aspirin at school, parental consent is required.

Does this make sense to anyone? Please really think about this and imagine that it's your daughter seeking the abortion. Wouldn't you want the opportunity to discuss this potentially life-altering decision with her?

Proposition 4, Sarah's Law, would require notification of a minor girl's parent or legal guardian 48 hours before she terminates her pregnancy. Similar initiatives have been on the ballot twice before, and they have failed primarily because opponents believe this will endanger girls from abusive homes.

Although exceptions were provided for medical emergencies and waivers obtained through the courts, Proposition 4 also allows for the notification of an alternative adult family member if abuse by the parent is suspected. Similar measures are in place in over 30 states, and not once have they been reported to harm girls.

The present law in California, on the other hand, is harmful to our daughters. Girls under the age of 18 are, with few exceptions, not equipped to deal with pregnancy and abortion on their own.

Setting aside the emotional issues, what happens if a young girl gives the doctor an inaccurate medical history and/or postabortion complications arise? What if her pregnancy is the result of sexual abuse or her abortion the result of coercion?

Give parents the opportunity to do their jobs as responsible protectors of their children and vote yes on Proposition 4. Carol Slavin Oak Park