STATEHOUSE (June 24, 2022) – Area lawmakers said they plan to support further protections for the unborn and expanded resources for pregnant women in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade on Friday.
State Reps. Wendy McNamara (R-Evansville), Cindy Ledbetter (R-Newburgh) and Tim O’Brien (R-Evansville) said the nation’s highest court rightfully returned the question of abortion back to the states by overturning Roe. Indiana lawmakers are expected to take action to further protect life when they return to the Statehouse for a special session. Gov. Eric Holcomb recently announced his call for lawmakers to reconvene on July 6 and provide $1 billion in inflation relief to Hoosier taxpayers due to higher-than-expected revenue collections.
“Today’s court ruling gives the General Assembly the opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to life,” McNamara said. “While it’s too early to know what possible legislation could look like, I look forward to discussing this important issue with my House colleagues and taking action to strengthen protections for the unborn.”
In March, McNamara, Ledbetter and O’Brien signed onto a letter urging Gov. Eric Holcomb to call a special session should the Supreme Court overturn Roe v. Wade. Click here to view and download the letter.
“The right to life is first among human rights,” Ledbetter said. “Our laws should recognize the advances in science, which prove the unborn deserve the same protections as all Americans. This rightful ruling allows us to take action to further preserve the sanctity of life, and increase support for new and expectant mothers.”
“I’m ready to join my fellow legislators in carefully weighing the best course of action to continue Indiana’s track record of protecting life at all stages,” O’Brien said. “I also believe we need to do more to ensure pregnant women have access to resources and support to care for their babies.”
Further details of the special session have not yet been announced and legislation has not been released. However, the General Assembly is expected to vet any legislation regarding abortion through the full legislative process, including hosting committee hearings and public testimony. Updates will be posted to the Indiana General Assembly’s website at iga.in.gov.
