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House approves 'She Wins' informed-consent measure for abortion, sparking partisan debate
Summary
House Bill 347 (the She Wins Act) passed 64–31 after lengthy debate; sponsors said it applies a 24‑hour informed‑consent standard and fuller disclosures for abortion care, while opponents warned it burdens access and runs counter to the state constitutional amendment protecting reproductive rights.
House Bill 347, titled the Health and Empower with Informed Notices Act (commonly referred to by supporters as the "She Wins Act"), passed the Ohio House March 24 following extended floor debate and votes on amendments.
Representative Odioso, the bill sponsor, described the measure as applying standard medical informed-consent procedures — including a 24‑hour reflection period and full disclosure of risks — to abortion care to ensure patients receive the same standard of information used for other medical procedures. "The She Wins Act does not seek to relitigate the decision of Ohio voters... but rather to provide women with the full protection of informed medical consent," Odioso said.
Opponents, including Representative Simani and Representative Russo, said the 24‑hour waiting period and added requirements create delays that harm access to care, disproportionately burden low-income patients, and risk litigation given the state's reproductive-rights amendment. Representative Simani called the bill the "She Loses Act," saying waiting periods "made no difference in a woman's confidence in her decision" and can increase medical risk through delays.
An amendment proposing coverage for IVF and other reproductive treatments was offered from the floor and laid on the table by majority vote. The final recorded vote on H.B. 347 was 64 in favor and 31 opposed. Supporters said the bill preserves patient protections and accountability; opponents emphasized constitutional and access concerns.
