The Protect Reproductive Options Act Passes Two Committees, Two Steps Closer to Law

St. Paul, MN — Today, the Protect Reproductive Options Act (PRO Act) passed the Minnesota House Judiciary Finance and Civil Law Committee and the Minnesota Senate Health and Human Services Committee. The legislation would immediately establish the fundamental right for every Minnesotan to make decisions about their own reproductive health care, including the right to choose contraception, the right to infertility treatment, the right to carry a pregnancy to term and the right to abortion.

Currently, Minnesota has legal precedent protecting the right to abortion. As was seen with Roe v. Wade, legal precedent can be overturned. Passing a state law provides a level of protection that judges cannot overturn.

Statement from Tim Stanley, Executive Director of Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund:

“The PRO Act is urgently needed in Minnesota. Abortion was on the ballot in November, and Minnesotans made it clear they wanted reproductive rights codified by electing a pro-choice majority to the Minnesota House and Senate, plus electing Gov. Walz to four more years as governor.

Codifying rights into law also guarantees doctors, nurses, and the medical community that they can continue providing the best reproductive health care to their patients without worrying about politicians or judges interfering. The bill is moving through the legislature at warp speed, and Minnesotans are cheering it on every step of the way.”

Statement from Dr. Siri Fiebiger, Obstetrician-Gynecologist and the Chair of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Minnesota Section:

“For 30 years, I have cared for high risk and complicated pregnancies which not infrequently includes abortion care. I have witnessed my patients carefully assess their unique situations, honoring their commitments to children, partners and to themselves - and I have then supported their heart grounded decisions whether or not to continue a pregnancy. Passing the PRO Act would be a historic step that makes me hopeful for the future of Minnesota, knowing that future generations will be ensured the bodily autonomy and freedom they deserve.”