1. The first paragraph of a news article should answer the questions who, what, where and when. List the who, what, where and when of this news item. (NOTE: The remainder of a news article provides details on the why and/or how.)

2. What does abortion law in Pennsylvania currently allow? What is the exception?

3. What exception would the proposed Down Syndrome Protection Act require?

4. a) There are 203 members of the Pennsylvania House (109 Republicans and 91 Democrats). How many members co-sponsored the Down Syndrome Protection Act (House Bill 2050)?
b) Challenge: If you live in Pennsylvania, visit your representative’s website to see whether he/she supports the bill.
Note: The Pennsylvania Senate version of the Down Syndrome Protection Act is Senate bill 1050. Do a search for your senators’ position on the bill.

5. a) How many other states have passed laws prohibiting abortions because of a Down Syndrome diagnosis?
b) CHALLENGE: Do an internet search. Name the states.

6. Read Read Facts about the Down Syndrome Protection Act (House bill 2050).
Then watch the video under “Resources” and check out some of the links (all include videos).
a) Do you think every state should pass a law protecting babies with Down Syndrome? Explain your answer.

b) The Down Syndrome Protection Act has bipartisan support. As Republicans have majority control in both the Pennsylvania House and Senate it is expected to pass in both houses. However, PA Governor Tom Wolf, a Democrat, has stated that he will not sign any bills that would limit what he refers to as “abortion access.” He will most likely veto the Down Syndrome Protection Act. What do you think of the governor’s position? Explain your answer.