Democrats Affirm Reproductive Rights in Illinois

Chicago, Ill. – House Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch stood with Democrats this week condemning the Supreme Court's draft opinion that would overturn the landmark Roe v. Wade decision, and will allow states to strip away a woman's right to bodily autonomy.

Democratic lawmakers in Illinois had the foresight to protect reproductive rights by enshrining them into law in the event a conservative-packed Supreme Court would try to overturn Roe. In 2019, the General Assembly passed the Reproductive Health Act which established a fundamental right to reproductive healthcare, and Governor JB Pritzker swiftly signed it into law.

"We've been warned this day would come," said Speaker Welch. "That's why we've worked hard in Illinois to ensure Roe v. Wade is codified into law and reproductive healthcare will not be in jeopardy. In Illinois, we will never go back. Not on our watch."

Illinois also repealed the Parental Notification Act in 2021. This ensures that a pregnant minor can choose whether to involve a family member or legal guardian in their decision to receive abortion care. This repeal protected our state’s most vulnerable youth from being compelled to notify abusers.

In March, House Democrats passed House Bill 1464 which would ensure Illinois health care providers are not punished by other states' cruel and oppressive laws. The measure clarifies that a licensed doctor in Illinois cannot be disciplined in Illinois if another state suspends or revokes their license for participating in or performing an abortion. This bill protects doctors from these restrictive and unnecessary sanctions so they can continue to provide the vital health care Illinoisans need.

Unfortunately, no Republican supported this effort. During debate, Republicans insinuated this legislation was a waste of time and called Democrats "out of touch" for prioritizing a woman's right to reproductive healthcare.

"It's clear reproductive care is under assault in this country but abortion is safe and legal in Illinois," said Speaker Welch. "Despite draconian efforts in our neighboring states, Illinois will remain a safe haven to people seeking abortion care. As long as Democrats are in charge, women will have the fundamental right to make health decisions without government interference."