Note to the Press – Local lawmakers issued the following statements in response to the U.S. Supreme Court reversing its decision on Roe v. Wade and returning the issue of abortion back to the states. State legislators are expected to take action to further protect life when they return to the Statehouse for a special session. Gov. Eric Holcomb recently announced his call for lawmakers to reconvene on July 6 and provide $1 billion in inflation relief to Hoosier taxpayers due to higher-than-expected revenue collections. Details of the special session have not yet been announced. Updates will be posted to the Indiana General Assembly's website at iga.in.gov.
STATEHOUSE (June 24, 2022) – “Today's decision rightfully returns the question of abortion back to the people and the states, and we're excited to build on Indiana's already strong pro-life track record. While it's too early to speculate on what form legislation may take, I strongly believe we'll couple any action with expanding resources and services to support pregnant mothers, and care for their babies before and after birth. It's my expectation for state lawmakers to take action to further protect life when we return to the Statehouse for a special session. We recognize the passion from all sides on this issue, and that's why I expect the General Assembly to thoughtfully vet any legislation through the full legislative process, including committee hearings and public testimony," said House Speaker Todd Huston (R-Fishers).
"This monumental Supreme Court decision rightfully returns the question of abortion back to the people of each state. We should always protect the sanctity of life, and this favorable ruling gives us the unique opportunity to save more innocent lives," said State Rep. Tony Cook (R-Cicero).
"Advocating and being a voice for the unborn is a top priority, and I will support efforts to return to the Statehouse to further build on Indiana's life protections. It's also important that we take action to expand support for pregnant Hoosiers and newborns," said State Rep. Chuck Goodrich (R-Noblesville).
"After 50 years, the issue of our most basic right, the right to life, has finally been returned to the people and their elected representatives, where it belongs. I look forward to joining my colleagues at the earliest opportunity to pass legislation, which protects the life and dignity of unborn Hoosiers," said State Rep. Chris Jeter (R-Fishers).
"Indiana continues to prioritize defending the lives of our most vulnerable, and I look forward to taking action to further protect life. I also strongly believe that we need to expand resources and support for expectant mothers and their babies," said State Rep. Donna Schaibley (R-Carmel).
"While I haven't had a chance yet to review the Dobbs decision and think it's too early to know what any proposed legislation may look like, I look forward to having discussions with constituents and colleagues in the General Assembly about what this decision means for Hoosiers and what actions we should take. In recent years I have authored legislation making adoption more affordable and accessible, and will continue to work on that as well as supporting efforts to provide more resources for expectant and new mothers," said State Rep. Jerry Torr (R-Carmel).
Background:
In March, Huston, Cook, Goodrich, Jeter and Schaibley signed onto a letter urging Gov. Eric Holcomb to call a special session should the nation's highest court return the question of abortion back to the states. Click here to view and download the letter.
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House Speaker Todd Huston (R-Fishers) represents House District 37, which
includes Fishers and portions of Hamilton County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Tony Cook (R-Cicero) represents House District 32,
which includes all of Tipton County and portions of Hamilton,
Madison, Delaware, Howard and Grant counties.
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State Rep. Chuck Goodrich (R-Noblesville) represents House District 29,
which includes portions of Hamilton County.
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State Rep. Chris Jeter (R-Fishers) represents House District 88,
which includes portions of Marion, Hamilton and Hancock counties.
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State Rep. Donna Schaibley (R-Carmel) represents House District 24,
which includes portions of Boone and Hamilton counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Jerry Torr (R-Carmel) represents House District 39,
which includes portions of Hamilton County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
