Ohioans have made their voices heard. Abortion access is a constitutional right and reproductive freedom is protected! On November 7, 2023, Ohio voters passed “The Right to Reproductive Freedom with Protections for Health and Safety” constitutional amendment, also known as Issue 1. With the amendment now enshrined into our state constitution, we can begin working towards the brighter future Ohioans deserve!
So, what does this mean for accessing care in Ohio? Let’s look further into this amendment and how it affects you:
What is “The Right to Reproductive Freedom with Protections for Health and Safety” constitutional amendment?
“The Right to Reproductive Freedom with Protections for Health and Safety” constitutional amendment was written by a coalition of statewide reproductive health, rights, and justice organizations including our friends at Planned Parenthood Advocates of Ohio. The coalition came together with the goal of ensuring Ohioans, not the government, have control over their own reproductive freedom. Take a moment to read the amendments full text!
When does Issue 1 go into effect, and what does that mean for Ohioans?
Issue 1 and its protections for reproductive rights are officially part of the Ohio Constitution as of December 7, 2023. The amendment, in simple terms, puts you in charge of your decisions around pregnancy including abortion, birth control, infertility treatment, and miscarriage care. This means that the six-week abortion ban being considered by the Ohio Supreme Court is effectively void.
What does Issue 1 mean for the future of reproductive health care in Ohio?
Now that reproductive health care is a constitutional right, providers like Planned Parenthood of Greater Ohio (PPGOH) can focus on expanding access to our services, including abortion and contraception. Everyone should be able to receive the care they need and deserve. It is time to transform the landscape of health care and take charge by creating a new narrative of what access to care can look like.
Can I get an abortion in Ohio?
There are nine abortion clinics throughout the state. This includes our Bedford Heights and East Columbus Surgical Centers. PPGOH provides care through 19 weeks and 6 days of pregnancy.
To learn more about getting an abortion in Ohio, read our How to Get an Abortion in Ohio blog!
Thank you to everyone who worked so hard to make it a reality! This is just the beginning. We are committed to ensuring that everyone has access to affordable, compassionate reproductive health care. To make an appointment with us, call 800-230-7526 or visit our website.
Tags: Abortion, Reproductive Rights, birth control