Note that the subject's name is spelled wrong.
Note that the subject's welfare is not an issue.
Note that the definition of "custody" makes no sense.
Note that "withdrawal of food" is not likely, since it is probably a physical impossibility.
Note that the grammatical flaws of this legislation are likely to render it unenforceable.
Do you think that's an accident?
S. 529., The Incapacitated Person's Legal Protection Act
Teri Schiavo is subject to an order that her feeding tubes will be disconnected on March 18, 2005 at 1p.m.
The Senate needs to act this week before the Budget Act is pending business, or Teri's family will not have a remedy in federal court.
This is an important moral issue and the pro-life base will be excited that the Senate is debating this important issue.
This is a great political issue, because Senator Nelson of Florida - has already refused to become a cosponsor and this is a tough issue for Democrats.
The bill is very limited and defines custody as "those parties authorized or directed by a court order to withdraw or withhold food, fluids, or medical treatment."
There is an exemption for proceeding "which no party disputes, and the court finds, that the incapacitated person while having capacity, had executed a written advance directive valid under applicably law that clearly authorized the withholding or withdrawal of food or fluids or medical treatment in the applicable circumstances."
Incapacitated persons are defined as those "presently incapable of making relevant decisions concerning the provision, withholding or withdrawal of food fluids or medical treatment under applicable state law."
This legislation ensures that individuals like Teri Schiavo are guaranteed the same legal protections as convicted murderers like Ted Bundy.
Posted by Hannah at March 21, 2005 03:41 PM