Schmidt Introduces Human Life Protection Act

COLUMBUS – Tuesday, State Representative Jean Schmidt (R-Loveland) introduced House Bill 598, legislation to further protect unborn children’s right to life in Ohio.

The legislation is a proactive “trigger ban,” preparing Ohio to ban abortion, should the U.S. Supreme Court allow states to prohibit abortion or if the U.S. Constitution is amended to authorize states to prohibit abortion. The bill will be known as the Human Life Protection Act. 

 “With the U.S. Supreme Court hearing the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization case, there is renewed hope that states will once again be able to outlaw abortion and protect the most vulnerable in our society,” said Schmidt. “I’ve been dedicated to protecting unborn children my whole career. This legislation will ensure that Ohio is prepared to take action when the opportunity arrives.” 

Should Ohio be granted the power to ban abortion, the Human Life Protection Act would: 

• Ban all abortions in Ohio;
• Penalize anyone who performs an illegal abortion with a fourth-degree felony; 
• Provide immunity to a woman on whom an illegal abortion is performed; 
• Provide an affirmative defense for abortions performed to save the life of the mother. 

The manufacturing, distribution and sale of drugs, medicine, instruments or devices intended for the purpose of abortions will also be banned under the bill. 

“As servants of the people, I consider it a duty of Ohio’s legislative body to protect each and every constituent, that includes unborn children,” said Schmidt. 

Schmidt is not alone in her efforts, her newly introduced legislation has a companion bill in the Ohio Senate. Beyond the state of Ohio, similar legislation has been passed in 13 other states, including neighboring Kentucky. 

The Human Life Protection Act now awaits committee referral.