The proposed bill establishes a fundamental right to reproductive health in Minnesota, codified under a new section in the Minnesota Statutes, chapter 145, titled the "Protect Reproductive Options Act." It defines "reproductive health care" to encompass a range of services including contraception, abortion care, and maternity care, among others. The bill asserts that every individual has the right to make autonomous decisions regarding their reproductive health, including the choice to continue a pregnancy or obtain an abortion. It emphasizes that these rights are grounded in the principles of individual liberty, personal privacy, and equality as recognized by the Minnesota Constitution.
Additionally, the bill includes a provision that prohibits local governments from enacting regulations that are more restrictive than those outlined in the bill regarding the exercise of reproductive rights. This ensures a uniform standard across the state, protecting individuals' rights to make decisions about their reproductive health without undue interference. The section is set to take effect the day after final enactment.