Rep. Sweeney vows to protect Ohioans' freedom to make their own health care decisions after Supreme Court strikes down Roe v. Wade

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Bride Rose Sweeney (D-Cleveland) today issued a statement after the Supreme Court’s conservative majority struck down Roe v. Wade, which established the right to access safe and legal abortion care in the United States.

“Make no mistake, this Supreme Court decision has stripped away the rights of women to control their own bodies, and all of our rights are now on the line,” said Rep. Sweeney. “Despite 60 percent of Ohioans supporting Roe and abortion rights, this dangerous and incomprehensible decision encourages extremism in Ohio, which will endanger the lives of women, take away the right to bodily autonomy, and undermine our democracy.” 

Over 60% of Ohioans agree with the Roe v. Wade decision to allow access to abortion. Despite this, Ohio Republicans continue to prioritize legislation to ban abortion, including the 6-week abortion ban signed into law by Gov. DeWine in 2019. House Bill 598 and Senate Bill 123 are current pieces of legislation that would completely ban abortion in Ohio without any exceptions for rape, incest or to protect the health of the mother. 

Rep. Sweeney, a co-sponsor, and other Democrats have introduced House Joint Resolution (HJR) 5, a constitutional amendment that would ensure all people have the freedom to make decisions about their bodies and healthcare. This includes the ability to obtain surgical and medical abortion services. Additionally, the amendment would codify the right to access and use contraceptive devices and medications. 

HJR 5 still awaits assignment to a House committee and a first hearing.