Bill Details and Requirements
House Bill 347 requires physicians to meet with patients at least 24 hours before performing an abortion to deliver state-mandated informed consent information on potential physical and psychological risks. The Ohio State Medical Board would set rules for disclosures, with civil penalties for non-compliant doctors. Supporters, including Reps. Mike Odioso (R-Green Twp.) and Josh Williams (R-Sylvania Twp.), argue it ensures informed decisions without banning abortions.
Opposition Cites 2023 Constitutional Amendment
Critics, including Abortion Forward and the ACLU of Ohio, contend the bill violates Ohio’s 2023 Reproductive Freedom Amendment, approved by voters with 57% support to protect abortion access. A similar prior law was blocked in 2024 by a Franklin County judge, who ruled its waiting period and in-person mandates unconstitutional as they do not advance patient health. The hearing ended with opponents shouting “shame,” highlighting accusations that the bill discriminates against abortion care and burdens low-income, rural, and minority patients with travel and costs.
Next Steps and Broader Context
The bill now heads to the full Ohio House for a vote, likely next week, before potential Senate consideration. Abortion rights groups like Abortion Forward warn it creates barriers, while proponents like Rep. Jennifer Gross (R-West Chester) say it provides time to review data in non-rushed decisions. This advances amid ongoing litigation over the previous ban, underscoring tensions post-2023 amendment.
