'Heartbeat' Bill Returns to Ohio Legislature

Committees in both the Ohio House and Senate yesterday heard testimony around a law that would ban abortions after a fetal heartbeat is detected — as soon as six weeks after conception.

It's not the first time the restrictions — which, if passed, would be among the strictest in the country — have come before the Ohio General Assembly. But they may have a better chance of passing into law and withstanding legal challenges now than at any time in the past.

The state Senate's Health, Human Services and Medicaid Committee heard testimony about SB23 and the House Health Committee heard HB68, both versions of the so-called "heartbeat" legislation.

The bills have roughly 50 co-sponsors as well as the support of pro-life groups like Ohio Right to Life. But dozens also testified or submitted written statements opposing the bills, including NARAL Pro-Choice Ohio and the Ohio State Medical Association, on the grounds that it would block women's access to needed health care.

Read more: https://www.citybeat.com/news/blog/21049069/heartbeat-bill-returns-to-ohio-legislature