Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker has signed House Bill 370, which repeals the Parental Notification Act (PNA).
According to a press release from his office, "Rescinding the PNA ensures that while a pregnant minor can choose to involve a family member or legal guardian in their decision to have or not have an abortion, vulnerable youthsuch as victims of rape, incest and domestic abuseare not compelled to do so under the law."
The Parental Notification Act of 1995 required doctors to notify a pregnant minor's parent within 48 hours prior to an abortion procedure.
"With reproductive rights under attack across the nation, Illinois is once again establishing itself as a leader in ensuring access to healthcare services," said Pritzker. "This repeal was essential, because it was the most vulnerable pregnant minors who were punished by this law: victims of rape and physical abuse in unsafe homes. I thank Representative Anna Moeller, Senator Elgie Sims and the lawmakers and advocates who have fiercely fought to repeal this law and keep vulnerable young people safe. I'm proud that Illinois continues to be a national leader in protecting reproductive rights."
In a separate statement, Planned Parenthood Illinois Action President and CEO Jennifer Welch said the signing "couldn't have happened at a more crucial time, as reproductive rights are hanging by a thread across the country.
"By signing the Youth Health and Safety Act into law, Illinois has ensured that young people can decide to involve the people they trust in their health care decisions and are protected from harmful domestic situations and unnecessary judicial interactions. In short, all Illinoisans, regardless of age, now have the full legal autonomy to make reproductive health care decisions that are best for their bodies."