Ohio House Democrats to Introduce Protect Assistive Reproductive Technology Act

COLUMBUS – State Reps. Dr. Anita Somani (D-Dublin) and Beryl Brown Piccolantonio (D-Gahanna) are proud to formally introduce HB 502, the Protect Assistive Reproductive Technology (ART) Act. This legislation aims to protect access to critical ART procedures, such as in-vitro fertilization (IVF).

“As legislators, our job is not to interfere in the lives of our constituents whether it is their right to an abortion or to assisted reproductive technology. Our role should be to support legislation that continues to improve society whether it be for reproductive health, environmental health, public education or public health,” said Rep. Somani.

The bill includes civil and criminal immunity for providers, facilities, or health care personnel who provide assistive reproductive care, as well as for the patients seeking care. Also included are data protections for patients, ensuring that third party organizations, such as law enforcement agencies, do not have access to private medical information.

“First and foremost, this bill is about respecting and upholding the will of the voters in Ohio who resoundingly supported the constitutional right to make and carry out their own reproductive decisions, including fertility treatment. IVF is not a partisan issue, as Ohioans from across the political spectrum supported this amendment,” said Rep. Brown Piccolantonio.

The bill awaits a House committee assignment.

You may watch the press conference on the Ohio Channel. 

EDITOR’S NOTE: A picture of Reps. Somani and Brown Piccolantonio at the press conference is attached to this press release. Courtesy: Ohio House Democratic Caucus.