WASHINGTON, D.C. - Pennsylvania Congressman, Mike Kelly has re-introduced legislation that would prohibit abortions upon the detection of an unborn fetus's heartbeat.

The "Heartbeat Protection Act" was previously introduced in the 177th Congress and is co-led by Representatives Chris Smith of New Jersey and Kat Cammack of Florida. It had 62 original co-sponsors.

If passed, the legislation would require doctors to check for a fetal heartbeat before performing an abortion. If an abortion is performed without checking for a heartbeat, or is performed despite detection of a heartbeat, the physician would be subject to criminal penalties. 

The legislation would make an exception for rape, incest or if an abortion is necessary to save a woman's life.

The legislation would not supersede existing laws in states that have already placed restrictions or bans on abortions, but instead would set a minimum standard of unborn protection going beyond what these states may choose.

Women who get an abortion that violate these laws would not be subject to prosecution.

"Our founders understood that life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness are our most fundamental rights. First among these is life," Kelly said.

Kelly went on to say he's proud to be leading this bill again and he will continue working to "protect those who cannot protect themselves."

"Children may be only 25% of the population, but they are 100% of our future," Kelly said.