A recent decision by a panel of male lawmakers has left many feeling let down, as they chose not to abolish a troubling law that mandates women to negotiate child custody arrangements with their rapists. This law impacts survivors of sexual assault in Maryland, where five male legislators opted to let this distressing situation continue, denying women an essential reprieve in their lives.
Currently, rape survivors are compelled to collaborate with their attackers regarding custody and adoption matters, a reality that exacerbates the trauma they have already endured. Maryland stands as one of just seven states that does not permit women to sever the parental rights of their assailants, as highlighted by the reproductive rights group NARAL. The implications of this policy are devastating for those who conceive as a result of sexual violence. As NARAL’s Maryland chapter points out, if a woman chooses to carry her pregnancy to term, she risks her attacker claiming parental rights, potentially forcing him into her life for years to come.
Delegate Sarah Thompson, who has tirelessly championed this cause, introduced a bill aimed at addressing this alarming issue and allowing women to terminate the parental rights of their rapists. Although her proposal gained traction in both the House and Senate, a negotiating group of five men failed to reach a conclusive agreement before the end of the legislative session. Instead of acting on the bill, they allowed time to elapse without taking any action, leaving many advocates, including Thompson, in tears over the setback.
Maryland’s legislative body will not revisit this critical legislation until the next session begins in January 2024, but victims of rape and unplanned pregnancies cannot afford to wait in silence for ten months. The five men who missed this opportunity to support women were Michael Grant, Liam Carter, Zachary Hayes, Noah Brooks, and Eric Parker.
As we reflect on this crucial issue, it’s clear that more needs to be done to protect the rights and well-being of those affected by sexual violence. For further insights into pregnancy and related topics, consider checking out resources like News Medical and Make a Mom. For privacy policies related to our content, feel free to visit our other blog post.
In summary, the failure of these male legislators to act on a law that could significantly ease the burden for rape survivors highlights a critical need for change. The ongoing struggle for women’s rights and protection remains at the forefront, demanding attention and action from lawmakers.