Ohio Senate Delays House Bill 258, the Six-Week Abortion Ban
For Immediate Release: Dec. 6, 2018 (Updated: Feb. 3, 2020, 4:49 p.m.)
PLANNED PARENTHOOD ADVOCATES OF OHIO
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Thursday, December 6, 2018
CONTACT: [email protected]
Ohio Senate Delays House Bill 258, the Six-Week Abortion Ban
COLUMBUS, OH – Earlier today, the Ohio Senate Health, Human Services and Medicaid Committee did not vote on House Bill 258, the six-week abortion ban, and adjourned for the remainder of the week.
On Wednesday, December 5 reproductive rights supporters testified for over two hours in opposition to this bill. Courageous witnesses lifted their voices, shared their stories, and provided expert testimony that clearly outlined the cruel and dangerous implications of this extreme legislation for women and for medical professionals.
Committee recessed overnight and after briefly resuming this morning decided to adjourn in order to thoughtfully consider the numerous amendment requests for this bill.
Statement from Lauren Blauvelt-Copelin, State Director, Planned Parenthood Advocates of Ohio:
“This delay is testament to the dozens of witnesses who elevated their voices and shared their powerful stories in opposition to this dangerous bill.
“Make no mistake – this is a small, but important victory. We are glad that Ohio legislators have slowed the fast tracking of this legislation and are taking time for thoughtful consideration of the harmful consequences a six-week abortion ban will have on the people of our state.
“We thank all of the patient advocates, medical providers, faith leaders, and supporters who played a critical role in helping the Committee Members understand that this bill is unsafe, unnecessary, and not aligned with Ohio’s values.
Planned Parenthood Advocates of Ohio and reproductive rights supporters across the state will remain diligent in the fight for reproductive rights and access to safe, legal abortion through the rest of the “lame-duck” legislative session and into the incoming Governor-elect Mike DeWine administration.
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Planned Parenthood Advocates of Ohio supports advocacy for women’s reproductive health and women’s rights, including grassroots organizing, community education, and lobbying.www.ppao.org