HB 2354

Abstract

Creates the Reproductive Health and Access Act. Provides that the State or any municipality, political subdivision, or other governmental unit or agency shall not: (1) deny or interfere with an individual's right to use or refuse contraception; (2) deny or interfere with a pregnant woman's right to bear a child; (3) deny or interfere with a pregnant woman's right to terminate a pregnancy: (i) prior to the viability of the fetus or (ii) when the termination of pregnancy is necessary to protect the life or health of the pregnant woman; or (4) require any woman to terminate pregnancy without her consent. Provides that party aggrieved by conduct that violates the Act may bring a civil lawsuit in a State circuit court or as a supplemental claim in a federal district court against the offending unit of government. Provides that the State shall ensure that individuals eligible for State medicaid assistance, or other State medical assistance, receive financial assistance for reproductive healthcare at least to the same extent as other comparable services. Provides that pregnancy terminations shall be performed in accordance with accepted standards of medical practice, by the method that, in the clinical judgment of the attending medical professional, will best serve the interests of the pregnant patient. Provides that all Illinois public schools shall offer medically accurate, age appropriate, comprehensive sexual health education as a part of the Comprehensive Health Education Program established in the Critical Health Problems and Comprehensive Health Education Act. Amends the Critical Health Problems and Comprehensive Health Education Act to provide that the Comprehensive Health Education Program shall comply with the Reproductive Health and Access Act. Provides that the provisions of the Act are severable. Contains other provisions. Effective immediately.