Pennsylvania senators push for abortion shield law to create haven from states with bans

Senators Amanda Cappelletti and Judith Schwank are advocating for a shield law in Pennsylvania designed to protect out-of-state women seeking abortions and the doctors providing these services. The law aims to prohibit Pennsylvania officials from aiding in the prosecution of individuals involved in abortion procedures, reinforcing existing protections from an executive order by former Governor Tom Wolf. The senators emphasize the need for legislative action to solidify these protections and address potential insurance consequences for abortion providers. They also propose measures to safeguard the home addresses of abortion providers and ensure the confidentiality of reproductive health records during criminal investigations. Since the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v.

Wade, 13 states have enacted comprehensive abortion bans, intensifying the legal challenges faced by women and healthcare providers. Previous legislative efforts to pass similar protections in the Pennsylvania House were halted in the GOP-controlled Senate. The push for the shield law underscores the ongoing conflict over reproductive rights and the necessity for local safeguards against restrictive laws from neighboring states. This proposed legislation reflects Pennsylvania's stance as a potential haven for reproductive health services amid increasing restrictions nationwide.