IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FEB. 15, 2007

Topeka – Kansas House of Representatives gave tentative approval today to House Bill 2006, also known as Alexa’s Law.

“Alexa’s Law is an important piece of legislation that stirs emotional debate.  I am proud of the way the body conducted itself today,” House Speaker Melvin Neufeld (R-Ingalls) said.  “This bill will help deliver justice for those families who suffered the painful loss of an unborn child.” 

Rep. Lance Kinzer (R-Olathe) presented the bill to House Members for debate.

“Alexa’s Law establishes criminal law that recognizes the murder or injury of an unborn child is a separate crime,” explained Rep. Kinzer. “Right now under Kansas law, prosecutors can only file charges against the murderer for the death of the mother.  Alexa’s law changes the Kansas Criminal Code to allow the accused to face two murder charges.”

Alexa’s Law is named in memory of Alexa Lynn Brooks, the unborn child of Chelsea Brooks who was murdered last summer in Wichita.  Their family is working with Rep. Steve Brunk (R-Wichita) to get the bill passed.

“It was disappointing that two attempts were made to gut this important piece of legislation and replace it with completely different language,” Rep. Brunk said.  “I understand and support the desire to increase penalties for those who injure or murder a pregnant woman but this bill is about providing justice when the life of an unborn child is taken.”

Alexa’s Law is part of the House Republican Caucus’ 2007 Legislative Agenda.

"House Republicans outlined Alexa's Law as a top agenda priority this session because it is sound policy that protects lives and prosecutes those who would harm our children," said Majority Leader Ray Merrick. "I was pleased to see the body soundly reject efforts to alter the intent of this bill.  I am confident that the final vote will reflect the House's dedication to fighting the kind of heinous crimes that took the lives of Chelsea and Alexa Brooks".

House members approved a similar measure in 2005 but it saw no action in the Kansas Senate.  The federal government and 34 other states have similar laws already in place.

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