COLUMBUS--The Ohio House of Representatives convened today and passed Substitute Senate Bill 23, the Human Rights and Heartbeat Protection Act, on a vote of 56-39. The bill was then concurred upon by the Ohio Senate on a vote of 18-13. The measure now heads to Governor Mike DeWine's desk where it is expected to be signed without delay.
"We are overjoyed today that tens of thousands of precious pre-born children will be protected by law," commented Margie Christie, President of the Right to Life Action Coalition of Ohio and Executive Director of Dayton Right to Life. "After nine years of diligent effort, we believe this measure will pass constitutional muster and correct the erroneous Roe decision."
Withstanding an onslaught of weakening amendments offered by Democrats, all of which were defeated on mainly party-line votes, the House crafted a bill which prohibits the abortion of an unborn child with a detectable heartbeat. The Ohio Department of Health is directed to write rules within 120 days of enactment following standard medical procedures for heartbeat detection.
Violations of the measure would be a fifth-degree felony for the provider. Additionally, the State Medical Board can assess a $20,000 fine against providers. The funds collected will support adoption and foster care services.
"We fully expect recalcitrant abortionists will try to circumvent the law, but are confident the law will be enforced," noted Linda Theis, Vice President of the Right to Life Action Coalition of Ohio.
"The Right to Life Action Coalition of Ohio is grateful to our members, our fellow groups, and those who testified, called, and prayed for this bill to be adopted," observed Molly Smith, President Elect of the Right to Life Action Coalition of Ohio and President of Cleveland Right to Life. "We pray for the end of abortion, and the Human Rights and Heartbeat Protection Act moves us so much closer to that day."
