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

COLUMBUS– State Rep. Michael J. Skindell (D-Lakewood) 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.

“Women deserve the fundamental right to safe, legal and equal access to abortions, and should be able to make personal decisions about pregnancy and abortion with their medical team, free from fear or scrutiny,” said Rep. Skindell. “Criminalizing abortions puts the lives of many women in jeopardy, causes disparities of healthcare access and leaves women with no options.”  

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. 

Meanwhile, 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.