President Bush signing the Compromise Terri's Law

 President Bush signed a bill to allow Terri Schiavo’s parents another chance to save the life of their daughter.  Here is the statement he made in signing it.

 STATEMENT BY THE PRESIDENT

Today, I signed into law a bill that will allow Federal courts to hear a claim by or on behalf of Terri Schiavo for violation of her rights relating to the withholding or withdrawal of food, fluids, or medical treatment necessary to sustain her life. In cases like this one, where there are serious questions and substantial doubts, our society, our laws, and our courts should have a presumption in favor of life. This presumption is especially critical for those like Terri Schiavo who live at the mercy of others. I appreciate the bipartisan action by the Members of Congress to pass this bill. I will continue to stand on the side of those defending life for all Americans, including those with disabilities.

One of the Representatives who voted against the bill said that it was wrong of Congress to get involved in the matter because nobody knows what Terri wants.  The President’s statement above answers her objection – if you don’t know whether someone wants to live or die then the presumption should be in favor of life.

Updated on RARTL March 21, 2005