PITTSBURGH — Legislation is expected to be introduced this week in Pittsburgh City Council to preserve abortion access in the city if Pennsylvania bans it in the future.
Democratic Councilman Bobby Wilson announced his intention to introduce these pieces of legislation on the heels of Roe v. Wade being overturned by the Supreme Court on Friday.
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He’s expected to formally do that when the council meets on Tuesday.
The first bill will instruct Pittsburgh police and other law enforcement to deprioritize enforcement of abortion-related crimes if Pennsylvania ever bans abortion.
The second bill will regulate advertisements that are considered deceptive by crisis pregnancy centers in the City.
The third bill is designed to protect abortion providers in Pittsburgh from out-of-state investigations or prosecution for providing abortion care that is legal in Pennsylvania.
“I think it’s important to take a step in my position, in my office, of what we can do locally to increase protections in this matter,” Wilson told Channel 11.
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In neighboring states Ohio and West Virginia, abortion is restricted following the court’s decision regarding Roe v. Wade.
West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice said Friday that he “applauds” the decision and “proudly stands for life.”
Pennsylvanians will elect a new governor in November, who could play a key role in the state’s stance on abortion moving forward.
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