Senate bill making it a crime to harm a fetus debated

(Capitol Hill-AP) -- President Clinton is being urged to veto a Senate bill that would make it a crime to harm a fetus during a violent act.<br><br>Assistant Attorney General Eleanor Acheson says the Justice

Wednesday, February 23rd 2000, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

(Capitol Hill-AP) -- President Clinton is being urged to veto a Senate bill that would make it a crime to harm a fetus during a violent act.

Assistant Attorney General Eleanor Acheson says the Justice Department is recommending that the president veto the legislation if it reaches his desk. Acheson says the bill is a "flawed federal response" to assaults against women.

Judiciary Committee Chairman Orrin Hatch denies any intent to make the legislation a litmus test in the fight over abortion.

Abortion rights supporters say the legislation is an election-year ploy by abortion opponents.

The administration favors legislation that would increase punishment when violence is committed against a victim the perpetrator "knows or should know is pregnant.