Abortion Clinic Regulations Bill Passed in House

House Bill 574, sponsored by Representative Matt Baker (R-Tioga), would hold abortion facilities to the same standards as other freestanding ambulatory surgical facilities.   While HB 574 would not bring an end to abortion in Pennsylvania, this bill would ensure that health regulations favor the health of women, not the abortion industry

The Pennsylvania House of Representatives voted 148 to 43 in favor of the bill, but not without debate. Several unfavorable amendments were offered but quickly defeated or withdrawn. One amendment, in particular, proposed “gutting” HB 574 and replacing it with language that would diminish the protections that are necessary to ensure patient safety. The members who voted to defeat amendment # A1894, sponsored by Rep. Chris Ross (R-Chester), took a particularly courageous stand on behalf Pennsylvania’s women and unborn children.

The legislation must now be considered by the state Senate before it goes to the governor’s desk. Visit, call, write or e-mail your state Senator to ask for his or her support for HB 574.

Also, if you live in one of these state Representatives’ districts, contact them to say thank you for voting against the Ross amendment and in favor of HB 574. (Please note that only constituents of these legislator’s districts will be able to use this tool.)