Ohio House Bill HB475

Ohio 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/8/24

Caption

Regards state and local funding of abortion providers

Impact

If passed, the bill would significantly impact state funding mechanisms by instituting mandatory reporting on abortion-related expenditures and eliminating state financial support for abortion-related entities. Local authorities that spend on these services would not only have to report their expenditures but also face potential reductions in local government funds from the state. This could drain financial resources from local entities that might otherwise use those funds for a variety of community services.

Summary

House Bill 475 seeks to amend existing legislation regarding the allocation of state funds and their connection to abortion-related activities. It proposes that no state funds be awarded to any entities that support, promote, or provide abortions. Furthermore, the bill instructs counties and municipal corporations to report any spending related to abortion services, with strict requirements for how these reports must outline expenditures. The intention is to ensure transparency and accountability in the usage of public funds regarding abortion-related activities.

Contention

The bill has prompted considerable debate among lawmakers and advocacy groups. Supporters argue that the legislation is essential for protecting the moral standing of state funds and ensuring they are not used to support practices they oppose. Critics, however, contend that the bill infringes upon local governments' rights to make decisions that reflect their community's values and needs. There are concerns that such measures may disproportionately affect the availability of reproductive health services, particularly in communities that may have less access to alternative funding sources.