Rachel Phillips, Staff

Texas may soon lose its status as the state with the most restrictive abortion law. As of Wednesday, Nov. 3, 2021, Republican lawmakers in Ohio have proposed an abortion bill with a severity that could overshadow the current “Heartbeat Bill” in Texas. The potential bill, also known as the 2363 act, a name that according to Ohio lawmakers reflects the number of daily abortions performed in the U.S., will ultimately place a total ban on abortion. If passed, the legislation will not include exceptions for rape or incest, nor will it allow for an abortion prior to the detection of a fetal heartbeat. In addition, similar to the social repercussion of the Texas bill, the 2363 Act will allow any civilian to file lawsuits of at least $10,000 to those caught receiving, aiding, or performing an abortion. Furthermore, if enacted, the bill will also ban defendants of civil suits from skirting prosecution based on claims of ignorance of the law or personal belief that it is unconstitutional.

In addition, it seems the arrival of the 2363 Act has prompted other states to consider similar copycat bills. Several states, including Arkansas, Mississippi, Missouri, North Dakota and Indiana, have publicly announced interest in an abortion ban and may attempt to initiate reform as early as January of 2022.

Current Ohio House Minority Leader Emilia Sykes has slammed the potential bill, labeling it “an egregious assault on women, a dangerous attack on healthcare rights and an embarrassment for the state.” However, despite the ongoing criticism of Sykes and the outrage from both healthcare providers and recipients, the 2363 Act has already been signed by 33 lawmakers, more than half of the House GOP caucus. While this does not guarantee a victory for the bill or Republican leaders, the early momentum does suggest an increased likelihood of passage.

Adrienne Kimmel, current president of Pro-Choice America, is one of many women who believe that the outcome in Ohio will be a decisive vote for the country and the future of healthcare freedom for women. She states, “The domino effect is well under way and will only continue to escalate in cruelty, as long as the Supreme Court allows legislation like Texas’ blatantly unconstitutional law to stand.”