The states seems extremely divided on abortion issues, while many are passing more restrictive abortion laws, others like New York and now, Illinois, are making it more accessible.
Illinois governor JB Pritzker signed the law on Wednesday, saying “Today we proudly proclaim that in this state, we trust women. And in Illinois we guarantee as a fundamental right a woman’s right to choose.”
“In a time when too many states across the nation are taking a step backward, Illinois is taking a giant step forward for women’s health,” he Tweeted.
One hundred years ago this week, Illinois became the first state in the union to ratify the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guaranteeing women the right to vote.
Today, Illinois is making history once again.
— Governor JB Pritzker (@GovPritzker) June 12, 2019
When it comes to contraception, abortion and reproductive care, this law puts the decision-making where it belongs: in the hands of women and their doctors.
— Governor JB Pritzker (@GovPritzker) June 12, 2019
The bill legalizes partial birth abortion and does away with the Illinois Abortion Law of 1975, that punished doctors for abortions performed that were said to be unnecessary. It also says a “fertilized egg, embryo, or fetus does not have independent rights under the law, of this State.”
Planned Parenthood praised the governor for his actions.
Access to reproductive healthcare is now a fundamental right in Illinois. Thank you, @GovPritzker for signing the Reproductive Health Act! #RHAinIL pic.twitter.com/OKQptDObRw
— Planned Parenthood (@PPIAction) June 12, 2019
Today, @GovPritzker ensured that access to safe, legal abortion care is recognized as the fundamental right that it is.
Thank you. #RHAinIL https://t.co/pwbC7pcitD
— Leana Wen, M.D. (@DrLeanaWen) June 12, 2019