Oklahoma House Bill HJR1027

Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/21
• Refer: 2/2/21

Caption

Oklahoma Constitution; unborn persons; abortion; penalties; ballot title; filing.

Impact

The implications of HJR1027 are significant, as it aims to reshape the legal landscape surrounding abortion in Oklahoma. By asserting that unborn persons have rights that must be recognized by the state, the amendment would explicitly prohibit abortion except in specific circumstances, such as when necessary to save the life of the mother or to prevent serious health risks. This would effectively limit access to abortion services and redefine the legal parameters within which reproductive health decisions are made.

Summary

HJR1027 is a proposed amendment to the Constitution of Oklahoma seeking to establish the rights of unborn persons as equivalent to those of born persons. This resolution proposes the addition of a new section, Section 2A to Article II of the state constitution, which affirms that life begins at conception. The bill defines 'unborn person' to encompass all developmental stages of human life prior to birth, thereby granting them the same legal rights and protections as those accorded to individuals already born.

Contention

One of the primary points of contention surrounding HJR1027 is the assertion that it does not secure or protect the right to perform or receive an abortion, which raises concerns among reproductive rights advocates. Opponents argue that this proposal infringes on personal liberties and could lead to punitive measures against healthcare providers performing abortions. The resolution also prohibits involuntary tracking or monitoring of women related to pregnancy, which some critics view as inadequate given the potential legal implications for women seeking reproductive health services. The bill represents a broader trend within state legislatures to tighten regulations surrounding reproductive rights and may face significant public scrutiny and legal challenges if passed.