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03/28/2024 06:49 PM
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/CSM/showMemoPublic.cfm?chamber=H&SPick=20230&cosponId=39146
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House of Representatives
Session of 2023 - 2024 Regular Session

MEMORANDUM

Posted: January 6, 2023 11:34 AM
From: Representative Liz Hanbidge
To: All House members
Subject: Prohibiting Spousal Notice in Abortions
 
The decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization egregiously stripped women of constitutional protections for abortion access. With federal protections removed, some states have reverted to statutes that were previously unenforceable or unconstitutional. 

 

In 1989, our state government got it wrong by requiring a woman’s husband be informed when his spouse was seeking an abortion before the procedure could be performed. This requirement was held unconstitutional in Planned Parenthood of Southeastern Pa. v. Casey because it places an undue burden on women, and this law was rendered unenforceable. 

 

This legislation would repeal current requirements on our books regarding spousal notification prior to abortion.  

 

Women have the sole responsibility to decide what occurs with their bodies, and no one – not even a spouse – has the right to unilaterally make decisions for their health without undue burden. Pennsylvania was founded on the ideals of individual liberty and freedom from oppression.  

 

It is time we update our laws to reflect modern times and remove this antiquated requirement that is not in effect. Please consider co-sponsoring this legislation, and together let us ensure everyone has access to safe, accessible healthcare without undue burdens.  



Introduced as HB810