Panel OKs ban on Ohio abortions relating to Down syndrome

COLUMBUS (AP) — A bill banning abortions in cases where a test or diagnosis indicates Down syndrome has cleared an Ohio House panel.

The House Community and Family Advancement Committee passed the measure Tuesday. Its next stop would be the House floor.

It’s part of Ohio Right to Life’s legislative agenda this session, as the anti-abortion group tries to continue a streak of legislative successes in Ohio’s Republican-led Legislature.

The bill prohibits a person from performing, inducing or attempting an abortion on a pregnant woman because Down syndrome is indicated.

Proponents say basing an abortion on fears of Down syndrome displays prejudice and that tests can be inaccurate.

Opponents, including abortion-rights groups and the ACLU, say the legislation unconstitutionally restricts a legal procedure that women should be able to decide about for themselves.