Reps. Somani, Liston Introduce Reproductive Care Act to Remove Abortion Limitations, Protect Patients and Providers

COLUMBUS – State Reps. Anita Somani (D-Dublin) and Beth Liston (D-Dublin) today formally introduced The Reproductive Care Act, legislation aimed at reducing barriers to accessing abortion and reproductive healthcare.

“With the passage of Issue 1, we have made abortion access a constitutional right,” said Rep. Somani. “However, there is much that still needs to be done to remove barriers to care and improve access. The Reproductive Care Act will help to do both by eliminating some of the barriers that have been legislated over the past ten years.” 

The legislation will repeal existing statutes related to abortion care, such as mandatory 24-hour waiting periods, transfer agreements, and TRAP laws. It will also add protections related to patients and providers including data privacy, nondiscrimination, along with civil and criminal protections for evidence-based care.

“Today, Dr. Somani and I are introducing this legislation to reflect the will of the people in Ohio, and those we represent - to make sure women in our state get the healthcare they need, want, and deserve,” said Rep. Liston.

The legislation now awaits a bill number and assignment to a House Committee.