LOCAL State MP Melinda Pavey has explained why she voted to decriminalise abortion in NSW.
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Members of the Legislative Assembly erupted into cheers on Thursday night when they voted in favour of the amended bill to take abortion out of the criminal code following three days of passionate debate.
MPs voted 59 to 31 in favour of the Reproductive Health Care Reform Bill 2019. It was backed by Premier Gladys Berejikilian, her deputy John Barilaro and Opposition leader Jodi McKay - along with Mrs Pavey, the Member for Oxley.
"The fundamental intent of the bill, which I supported, was to move pregnancy terminations out of the Crimes Act into the Health Act," Mrs Pavey told the Macleay Argus.
"I respect people have strong views on this issue, though people can continue to make their own decisions based on their circumstance, belief and conscience.
"The bill has now moved to the Upper House where amendments will be discussed to ensure tighter provisions are made, based on sex and terminations beyond 22 weeks."
Treasurer Dominic Perrottet, Corrections Minister Anthony Roberts, Attorney General Mark Speakman and Planning Minister Rob Stokes all voted against the bill.
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An Upper House committee will examine the draft legislation this week before it's sent to the Legislative Council for consideration.
The bill allows terminations up to 22 weeks, as well as later abortions if two doctors considering all the circumstances agree the termination should occur.
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