The new abortion laws in Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, Missouri, Ohio, and Utah are shocking everyone across the world. Adults, teenagers, and children are outraged over these new laws. Teachers and students at San Luis Obispo High School have mixed opinions of these new restrictions. In Alabama, abortions of any kind are now illegal, even if the child was conceived through rape or incest. The other states allow abortion, but it will be illegal if a heartbeat is detected.

   “I think the states can do what they feel is right to do. I personally believe that once the sperm enters the egg, it’s a baby. My religious background believes that abortion is killing a baby, a new life. I understand some people can’t raise the child, but if you can’t raise it, give it up for adoption, the child deserves a life,” said SLOHS graduate Mallory Etter.

   Etter’s opinion of the abortion laws is very clear, having part of her beliefs about abortion, coming from her religion. Math teacher Annamarie Fella has different opinions about religion taking place in government laws.

  “It’s not fair. We’re supposed to be separated from the church and state. The government shouldn’t be telling women what to do with their bodies,” said Fella.

  Fella’s point of view is stating that the government should not control what women do to their bodies. She also goes on to say that the church, meaning religion, and the state, meaning the government, should not be involved with one another. Although the abortion laws are meant specifically for women, even men are speaking out about them.

   “The abortion laws impeds on women’s personal rights that the government should not be able to interfere with. Not allowing abortions for mothers who have had the child through rape or incest is wrong,” said junior Eli Schweitzer.

   Schweitzer believes that a women’s choice, involving her child is her decision which should not be involved with the government, especially if the child was conceived forcefully through rape or incest.

  Personal beliefs should not get in the way of laws. Laws are made to accommodate what is the best and safest option for all people. In the end, it all comes down to women’s rights. They are getting taken away, regardless of your own personal beliefs on abortion.