The Secular Humanists of Western Lake Erie are dismayed and disappointed that several local members of the Ohio House of Representatives signed on to a letter to announce their intention to subvert the will of the voters who passed State Issue 1 on November 7th.
The Ohio House Pro-life Caucus issued a press release on November 8th that said in part:
“We will do everything in our power to prevent our laws from being removed based upon perception of intent…”
Northwest Ohio members who signed on to the letter include Josh Williams (41), Derek Merrin (42), Susan Manchester (78), Roy Klopfenstein (82), Riordan McClain (87), and Gary Click (88).
State Issue 1, which passed with 56% of the vote on November 7th, added reproductive rights to the Ohio constitution which will remove many of the anti-abortion laws that people like the pro-life caucus have passed in recent years. The main law to be removed will be the heartbeat law which banned abortion after 6 weeks with no exceptions. Many targeted regulations that impose an undue burden on women getting abortions will also be removed. These regulations were added as part of the budget process years ago and weren’t subject to referendum.
Members of the state government take an oath of office that says they will defend the Ohio constitution. SHoWLE feels that if pro-life members from NW Ohio can’t move on and feel the need to violate their oath in order to deny women the right to make their own medical decisions, then they need to resign immediately.
Elected officials ask all us to obey the laws they pass so they should obey the will of the voters even if they disagree with that decision.
“We understand that such an effort isn’t gaining traction in the Ohio House,” SHoWLE President Douglas Berger stated. “But we feel the need to call out the representatives who seem to disrespect the voters and democracy. We are disappointed so many in Northwest Ohio signed on to that letter and they need to do better.”
About Secular Humanists of Western Lake Erie
The mission of the Secular Humanists of Western Lake Erie is to provide a supportive local community for humanists and other nontheists, while promoting an ethical, reasonable, and secular approach to life through education, community service, outreach, activism, and social events.
We envision a Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan where secular people are respected and integrated in broader society, live values of reason and compassion, and enjoy a friendly humanist community.
Media Contacts
Douglas Berger – President
567-215-2694
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Additional Information on this topic:
Some Ohio GOP lawmakers attempting to undermine democratic process after voters protect abortion
