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House Judiciary hears HB 388 to shield pregnancy centers from compelled speech and regulation
Summary
Representative Amy Regier told the committee HB 388 would protect pregnancy centers’ First Amendment rights; supporters from Options Clinic and faith groups described free services and security concerns, while Planned Parenthood, medical groups and consumer advocates warned the bill would limit oversight and could enable misleading practices.
Representative Amy Regier (sponsor) opened testimony on House Bill 388, telling the House Judiciary Committee the bill is "a proactive bill that affirms the constitutional rights of pregnancy centers to function according to their purpose and protect them from any government laws or regulation that would be counter to their purpose." The bill’s sponsor said Section 2 would bar government requirements that compel centers to provide or promote services contrary to their mission and Section 3 would create legal remedies for centers that are harmed.
Supporters, including Tracy Uhlery, CEO of Options Clinic Care in Helena, and Derek A. Stryker of the Montana Family Foundation, described pregnancy medical clinics as faith‑based organizations that provide free pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, STI testing, parenting classes and material assistance. "Requiring pregnancy clinics to refer or…
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