In Atlanta, Georgia, the legislation passed Thursday night, 93-73, but not without significant debate and tension.
Some Democrats made a point of walking out before the bill was even introduced, reported WSBTV:
In a remarkable show of defiance, House Democrats turned their backs on the Acworth lawmaker sponsoring the so-called heartbeat bill before it was introduced.State Rep. Ed Setzler, who sponsored House Bill 481, said his legislation "seeks to recognize that the child in the womb that is living distinct from their mother has a right of life that is worthy of protection."
House Speaker David Ralston reprimanded them.
"I guess we have people in violation of the rules of the House. The gentleman will proceed, and this will be dealt with later," he said.
Prior to the vote to approve the heartbeat abortion ban, Republican Gov. Brian Kemp said in a statement:
Georgia is a state that values life. We shield the vulnerable and shelter the innocent. I applaud the Health and Human Services Committee for advancing legislation to protect the unborn. I encourage the House and Senate to do the same. This is a powerful moment in Georgia. It’s bigger than politics and partisanship. Let’s champion life today and ensure that all Georgians ‐ including the unborn ‐ have the chance to live, grow, and prosper.
Planned Parenthood Southeast condemned the state House’s approval of the legislation: