New Pro-Life Law affects Ohio Supreme Court Case

(Columbus, OH) Ohio's new "Protecting Pregnant Women from Coercion & Violence Act" goes into effect today. In addition to protecting pregnant women from violence and coerced abortions, the new law allows individuals to seek damages by offering proof against abortion facilities demonstrating a pattern of failing to report known or suspected child sexual abuse.

The Ohio Supreme Court has noted this new provision in the Roe v. Planned Parenthood Southwest Ohio Region case.

The new law, sponsored by former Rep. Michelle Schneider:

1) Requires abortion facilities to post a "No One Can Force You to Have an Abortion" poster;

2) Requires mandatory minimum prison sentences for assault and increases penalties for domestic violence if the offender knew the victim was pregnant;

3) Permits recovery of compensatory and exemplary damages in a civil action for failure to file required reports of known or suspected child abuse; and,

4) Provides mandatory prison sentences and payment of restitution to victims in cases of "human trafficking" for prostitution. Recently, the Ohio Supreme Court issued an order directing the parties in Roe v. Planned Parenthood Southwest Ohio Region to file briefs addressing whether the provisions of the new law apply to the case. The case was brought by Cincinnati-area parents whose minor daughter had an abortion at a Planned Parenthood facility without ther parents' knowledge after being sexually abused by her adult coach. The parents allege that Planned Parenthood failed to comply with the statute requiring reports of known or suspected child abuse as well as Ohio's parental consent statute.

"We are proud that Ohio has acted to protect women and children from coercion and abuse," said Mike Gonidakis, President of Ohio Right to Life. "Coerced abortion, violence against pregnant women, and child abuse have no place in a civilized society," Gonidakis said. "We are also pleased thatthe Ohio Supreme Court has noted the new law in the Roe v. Planned Parenthood case. Regardless of the decision whether the new law applies to an existing case, the Supreme Court's action should send a message to those who fail to report child abuse that the new law will be enforced and that their actions can result in liability," Gonidakis said.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Mike GonidakisDATE: 12-09-2008
PHONE: (614) 547-0099 x - 301