State Representatives Matt Lynch (R-Bainbridge Twp.) and Cheryl Grossman (R-Grove City) today introduced an Ohio version of the Prenatal Non-Discrimination Act (PRENDA), which recently was debated in the U.S. House of Representatives. This legislation is modeled after the federal proposal that prohibits abortions for the purpose of sex selection of the child.

The need for this legislation stemmed from videos that surfaced showing abortion clinic staff scheduling abortions for women posing as patients seeking an abortion solely because they do not want a baby girl.

“I was horrified by those videos, but even more shocking was the failure of our Congress to put a stop to gender-based abortions. Many western nations have already outlawed this practice, and with this bill we can stop it in Ohio,” said Representative Lynch. “The mother is also a victim in these cases. I have five daughters and five granddaughters; the very thought that anyone would consider aborting an unborn child simply because it is a girl is unconscionable. Those who want to defend the rights of women must step forward to support this bill which defends the right to life of unborn baby girls.”

The legislation introduced by Representatives Lynch and Grossman would prohibit performing abortions for gender selection and require medical professionals to report any violations. However, the patient would be specifically exempt from any liability.

Two weeks ago the federal proposal received significant bipartisan support from a 57 percent majority of the U.S. representatives.

“I believe that every life is precious and I am appalled that this practice exists in our nation. The innocent lives being ended by this horrific and inexcusable practice must be stopped immediately in Ohio,” Rep. Grossman said.