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Rep. Upchurch: Ohioans still deserve the freedom to make their own health care decisions after Supreme Court strikes down Roe v. Wade

June 24, 2022
Terrence Upchurch News

COLUMBUS– State Rep. Upchurch (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.

“What happened today is disgusting and mind boggling. It does not make sense for a man to think he has any right to tell a woman what to do with her body. To force a woman to keep a child even in instances of rape, incest and when the mothers health is at stake is repulsive. We have a duty to protect our citizens, and this includes women. Forcing someone to have a child does not protect that child, it only places them in potentially dangerous situations or in our foster care system. The decision to overturn Roe v. Wade is grossly negligent and I do not support it,” said Rep. Upchurch. 

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.