Protect Reproductive Options Act Passes Minnesota House Floor

The Minnesota House of Representatives quickly advances the codification of reproductive rights, including the right to an abortion and contraception

ST. PAUL, MN — Tonight, the Protect Reproductive Options Act (PRO Act) passed the Minnesota House of Representatives 65-69. The PRO Act will ensure that all Minnesotans are free to make their own reproductive health care decisions — not politicians or judges. Codifying the right to abortion and birth control into state law is an essential layer of protection in guaranteeing reproductive freedom for the long-term.

The PRO Act now awaits passage in the Senate before it can be signed by Gov. Tim Walz. Once signed, the bill will take effect immediately.

“Doctors and patients need to know that in Minnesota, reproductive rights are protected and valued,” said Dr. Traxler, Chief Medical Officer at Planned Parenthood North Central States. “Minnesota will become a national leader for reproductive freedom and equity and improved public health overall once our rights are codified into state law. Passing the PRO Act would be a historic step and makes me hopeful for the future of Minnesota, knowing that future generations will have the bodily autonomy and freedom they deserve.”

“Today’s passage of the PRO Act in the Minnesota House of Representatives is an inspiring and necessary step toward ensuring that all Minnesotans can make their own decisions about their bodies, families, and futures,” said Alexis McGill Johnson, president of Planned Parenthood Action Fund. “Codifying reproductive rights in Minnesota will be a monumental victory for residents today and in the future. Today is just the beginning.”

In June 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the 1973 landmark case Roe v. Wade eliminating the federal constitutional right to abortion. This decision was a shattering blow to the right to access abortion in the United States, leaving even more people struggling to access the essential health care they need. All states surrounding Minnesota are expected to eventually ban abortion, making Minnesota an island of access in the Midwest.

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Founded in 1992, the Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund is an independent, non-partisan, non-profit organization. As the advocacy and electoral arm of PPMNS, we mobilize supporters of all parties to defend and increase access to family planning services and fact based, medically accurate sexuality education. We work to inspire and engage citizens to take up the cause of reproductive health and rights through education, electoral activity, grassroots organizing and legislative advocacy.

Visit us at www.plannedparenthoodadvocate.org