Carbondale Reporter

Illinois state Rep. Paul Jacobs (R-Pomona) recently introduced several bills focusing on abortion and the rights of the unborn.

"This week I released information on the legislative agenda that I’ll be carrying in Springfield for the spring 2022 Session," Jacobs said in a Facebook post. "I’m focused on passing legislation that reflect the values of my fellow Southern Illinoisans. House and Senate Democrats and their willing partner Governor JB Pritzker have lurched the State of Illinois far to the left on taxes, crime, and corruption. Liberal Democrat policies have interfered greatly with our individual freedoms. I’m working on pocketbook issues, on restoring rights for unborn children, cutting taxes, and eliminating expensive and burdensome regulations. I am committed to carrying forward to Springfield the values we share."

The first of the three bills would create the Parental Notice of Abortion Act of 2022, with provisions similar to those of the Parental Notice of Abortion Act of 1995. It repeals the Youth Health and Safety Act, which removes parents' and guardians' rights to be notified if a minor in their care seeks an abortion. It would be effective upon becoming law or on the date Public Act 102-685 takes effect, whichever is later.

The second bill is known as the "Infant Born Alive Act." This bill would recognize a live child born as a result of an abortion attempt as a person and would ensure that human has immediate protection under the law. It would go into effect immediately.

"I also strongly believe women should have the opportunity to view an ultrasound before having an abortion," Jacobs said in a release, referring to the third bill, which would go into effect immediately. "The Ultrasound Opportunity Act requires abortion providers would be required to offer women the opportunity to view an ultrasound before an abortion procedure takes place.”

Jacobs said in a press release that he is focused on repealing the "radical-liberal abortion policies."