© 2024 WGLT
A public service of Illinois State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Illinois Legislature Narrows Right Of Conscience Law

Illinois State Capitol exterior
Justin Brocke
/
Flickr

The Illinois legislature has sent the governor legislation amending the state law that decides when doctors can object to caring for a patient based on moral principle.

The right of conscience law already says medical providers don't have to give reproductive services, such as prescribing birth control or performing an abortion.  That won't change. But, lawmakers say a doctor must give a patient information on where to get those services.

Senator Toi Hutchinson, a Democrat from Olympia Fields, said government shouldn't ​have a role in the bedroom, or the doctor's office.

"In the course of medical care, I have the right to make my own decisions about how I will proceed next between me, my husband and my God," said Hutchinson.

Senator Chapin Rose, a Republican from Mahomet, says the government shouldn't force medical providers to do something they find morally objectionable, even if that is only give information.  

"It's up to the individual to exercise their right of conscience in however they see it," said Rose.

The measure came about after a Chicago resident says a Catholic hospital told her that her second child had severe problems and wouldn't live. But the hospital refused to help her end the pregnancy, or give information on where to go for care.  The woman reportedly suffered through a dangerous miscarriage.

Related Content