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Debate in Judiciary over 'Fatherhood Begins at Conception' bill centers on child support, medical and domestic‑violence concerns
Summary
Sponsor Courtney Sprunger said HB 288 would ensure fathers share prenatal financial responsibility from conception; proponents framed the bill as reducing economic pressure that leads to abortion, while family‑law attorneys, medical experts and domestic‑violence advocates warned of practical, medical and safety problems.
Representative Courtney Sprunger (House District 7) introduced House Bill 288, titled "Fatherhood Begins at Conception," saying the bill would require child support to begin from the date of conception once paternity is established and proposed an amendment to provide a repayment schedule for retroactive payments. "If we truly believe in life, we must be willing to take full responsibility for life at every stage," Sprunger said.
Proponents — including Tracy Uhlery (CEO, Options Clinic), Derek Streicher (chief legal counsel, Montana Family Foundation), and several private citizens —…
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