PREGNANT DRUG ABUSERS FACE DETENTION

MADISON, Wis. -- Pregnant women who abuse alcohol or drugs could be confined
by a judge to protect their fetuses under a law signed by the governor Tuesday.

The law allows Wisconsin physicians, lawyers, counselors and other
professionals to report the women to police, who can take the women to a
hospital or a drug-treatment center.

Supporters say the new law will protect fetuses by forcing mothers-to-be
away from drugs and alcohol. Critics say the law extends some child-abuse
protections to fetuses.

That change could erode a woman's right to have an abortion because the
fetus might be considered a person, said Chris Ahmuty, executive director of
the American Civil Liberties Union of Wisconsin.

Pregnant women who abuse drugs or alcohol also might avoid getting medical
treatment because they would fear being reported and confined, said Nan
Brien, associate director of the Wisconsin Council on Children and Families.

Gov. Tommy Thompson signed the bill in Waukesha, where a case about a mother
whose physician said she used cocaine inspired lawmakers to draft the
so-called "cocaine mom" bill.

Checked-by: Melodi Cornett