Washington D.C., Jul 6, 2021 / 18:00 pm
Ohio state law now includes conscience protections for medical professionals, after Governor Mike DeWine (R) signed a state budget bill into law on June 30.
“Governor DeWine should be commended for his commitment to dignified health care. His clear understanding that health care professionals must have the right to freedom of conscience is vital to ensuring the health and safety of our patients,” said Dr. Michael Parker, president of the Catholic Medical Association, in a July 1 statement.
Signed on the night of June 30, HB 110 says that doctors, health care workers, hospitals, and insurers can “decline to perform, participate in, or pay for any health care service” which violates their consciences.
Parker commended DeWine for signing the protections into law despite opposition; he said that DeWine’s actions will protect healthcare professionals and patients for years to come.