COLUMBUS--Coming on the heels of over a dozen offered amendments, Amended Substitute Senate Bill 23, the "Human Rights and Heartbeat Protection Act" was reported to the floor of the House on a party-line vote of 11-7.

 

"The Right to Life Action Coalition of Ohio commends our elected officials who understand the humanity of the pre-born" noted Margie Christie, President of RTLACO. "The passage of the Human Rights Heartbeat Protection Act shows that the pre-born are also Ohio citizens deserving the full protection of our laws."

 

Chairman Derek Merrin noted the five hearings ion the measure, and over 80 witnesses testifying in person over 12 hours of debate on the measure before moving a vote on the bill. Democrat members of the committee offered nearly a dozen amendments, including ones to allow abortions on children with developmental challenges and to mandate condom-based sex education, all of which failed to secure support. 

 

"It is disturbing to see people in positions of power such as some elected officials acting to decide who is worthy to live or is condemned to die" observed Molly Smith, President Elect of RTLACO and President of Cleveland Right to Life. "It is highly ironic to have a discussion on the evils of slavery while offering amendments that would continue the subjugation of pre-born babies to the abortionist's tools."

 

The chairman moved an omnibus amendment to make minor changes to the measure, which was adopted on a party-line vote as well.

 

Linda Theis, Vice President of the Right to Life Action Coalition of Ohio, testified "Today, the world is aware that a heartbeat is a sign that the child is alive, growing and yes,  deserving of legal protection." She added "I would ask only that you do what is right and just for every other member of our human family and extend the Ohio law to provide legal protection for those yet unborn."