by Andrew Beckett ¦ Wisconsin Radio Network ¦ 22 January 2008

Wisconsin is one of only four states that still has a law banning abortion. State Representative Terese Berceau (D-Madison) wants to repeal it, in the event the Roe v. Wade decision legalizing abortions is ever overturned.

Berceau says supporters of the ban believe keeping it in place will prevent abortions. The Madison Democrat says that wasn't the case before Roe v. Wade and has not stopped abortions in other countries. However, she says those illegal abortions are usually very unsafe and have high mortality rates for women who have them performed.

Several attempts in previous sessions to overturn the ban have failed to overcome opposition. If the bill fails to pass this time, Berceau is vowing to continue the fight.

The Wisconsin law has been on the books for 158 years.