Rep. Kelly calls on governor to veto latest anti-abortion bill

COLUMBUS—Today, State Rep. Brigid Kelly (D-Cincinnati) sent a letter to Gov. Mike DeWine urging him to veto Senate Bill (SB) 157, the latest Republican anti-abortion bill. Opponents say SB 157 would put patients in danger by interfering with the ability for doctors and patients to make appropriate and life-saving medical decisions if faced with a medical crisis during pregnancy.

“This dangerous legislation will only complicate already difficult situations,” said Rep. Kelly. “If this bill becomes law, the safety and well-being of pregnant patients across our state will be threatened. I urge the Governor to veto SB 157 and put the power back in the hands of patients and their doctors.”

SB 157 would also restrict abortion access in Ohio by prohibiting physicians who are employed by or teach at a medical school affiliated with a state university or college, state hospital or other public institution from being eligible for variances from written transfer agreements that are required for abortion clinics. During opponent testimony on the bill, advocates explained this provision is directly targeted to close abortion clinics in Southwest Ohio.