Another Letter To The Editor In Support Of HB 6205
This Letter to the Editor was published in the Northwestern Herald on. Click here for the online version.
Facts on RHAA
To the editor:
Opponents of HB 6205, the Reproductive Health and Access Act (RHAA), are making numerous unsubstantiated claims about the requirements in the bill.
To set the record straight, here are the facts: HB 6205 allows for local control, with public school districts being able to choose the curriculum for sexual health education, and parents being able to opt out.
HB 6205 does not allow abortion for any reason at any time during pregnancy. Like current law, HB 6205 bans abortion after viability unless it is necessary to save a woman’s life or health.
HB 6205 clearly states that it does not “repeal, amend, or otherwise change the Illinois Parental Notice of Abortion Act of 1995,” and does not “repeal, amend, or otherwise change the Health Care Right of Conscience Act.”
Because of its provisions regarding prevention, HB 6205 will at least be revenue neutral.
The Illinois Department of Health and Family Services signed a witness slip in support of HB 6205.
The Illinois State Medical Society is neutral on HB 6205.
Supporters of HB 6205 include the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Illinois Public Health Association, Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault, and Protestants for the Common Good.
Shelly Nicholson
McHenry
