The Reproductive Health Care Reform bill is a personal one for member for Murray Helen Dalton, who has told of how a "backyard abortion" claimed the life of her great aunt.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
She shared the story of the "backyard procedure" when she spoke to the bill before NSW Parliament on Wednesday.
And while she said the "bill is not perfect", she believes the time is right for change.
"I always try to ensure my vote in parliament is consistent with the majority view in my electorate and I have concerns with the bill.
"I feel the provision allowing a pregnancy to be terminated at 22 weeks may be too late. I believe that Tasmanian law allowing unrestricted abortion until 16 weeks, and requiring the consent of two doctors after this time, is a better option.
"But doctors tell me it is rare for pregnancies to be terminated beyond 16 weeks in other states, even if the law permits it to happen.
"A decision to end a pregnancy is not something a woman ever takes lightly.
"NSW is the only state yet to decriminalise abortion.
"Our existing laws date back to 1900 and while this bill is not perfect, I believe the time is right for change."
Member for Albury Justin Clancy also spoke to the bill on Wednesday, asking the chamber to help build the legislation to "address some of the concerns raised".
Mr Clancy said he could not hide the fact his "faith is important too".
"It calls me to know that life is precious. It also calls me to not judge, to be compassionate, to listen," he said.
"The criminalisation of the woman through law is a blunt way to promote human dignity."
Mr Clancy acknowledged that the bill may pass in its current form but called on the chamber to work amendments into the bill.
"I would like to see amendments that help address concerns held by members of our community before I can give my support to the bill," Mr Clancy said.
"Irrespective of the outcome of this debate, for the individual the decision is and will always be profound - a decision that balances the preciousness of life with the complexity of human experience."
The bill is expected to come to a vote later this week.
