Two Republican members of Congress from Florida-Sen. Mel Martinez and Rep. Dave Weldon-introduced the "Incapacitated Persons Legal Protection Act" this week in response to the ongoing court dispute over Terri Shiavo's life. Shiavo, who has lived in a persistent vegetative state since 1990, will be disconnected from her feeding and water tubes on March 18. Martinez and Weldon said their bill would clarify due process rights for individuals who become incapacitated and have no legal recourse. "Our Constitution guarantees that no life will be taken without due process of law and guarantees equal protection under the law," Weldon said. The bill has more than 60 co-sponsors in the House.
