The reproductive rights of Illinoisans will be protected for the future, thanks to a bill signed into law by Governor Pritzker. The bill focuses on both reproductive rights and gender-affirming care. It also expands access to health care on a statewide basis and protects both medical providers and patients from any legal ramifications due to laws in neighboring states.
Gov. Pritzker, and many others across the state, are of the opinion that access to reproductive rights, including the right to an abortion, is part of health care. The decision on any reproductive choice should be between the doctor and the patient, and not controlled by the state or federal government.
When Roe v. was overturned. Wade, Gov. promised. Pritzker to Illinois residents that their rights remain protected. Signing the current bill into law furthered that commitment. Abortion is legal in the state up to the point where a fetus is viable outside the womb, which is generally around 6 months of pregnancy.
More than 10,000 patients from other states come to Illinois each year to seek reproductive care, and that number has continued to rise since Roe v. Wade. The new law will increase protections for these people, so they cannot be prosecuted criminally or civilly or prosecuted by their state of residence for coming to Illinois for abortion or other reproductive care.
The scope of what some health care providers are allowed to do has also increased, with physician assistants, ARNPs, and those working in birth centers having more autonomy and the ability to address the full spectrum of care. reproductive
This care, along with gender affirming care, will also be covered by insurance plans at no additional charge. Employers in the local government sectors are required to provide coverage for gender affirmation and reproductive treatments, including birth control, through their insurance plans.
This new law will help protect Illinois residents who need care, as well as those who visit from neighboring states for the help they seek.
The Surrogacy Law Center works with all individuals and couples, helping to protect their legal rights as they navigate the world of surrogacy and assisted reproductive procedures. Contact us today to learn more!
