(INDIANAPOLIS) - The Indiana Capital Chronicle reports that bill to expand Indiana's ability to prosecute manufacturers and distributors of abortion pills passed the Indiana Senate on Tuesday.
Senate Bill 236, co-authored by Sen. Liz Brown, R-Fort Wayne, cleared the Senate on a 35-10 vote. All Senate Democrats voted against the measure.
The legislation is designed to give the state additional enforcement tools related to abortion pills in Indiana, which already has some of the nation's most restrictive abortion laws. The bill allows civil action against individuals or entities involved in prescribing, manufacturing or transporting abortion-inducing drugs, including lawsuits for wrongful death.
An earlier version of Senate Bill 236 included language that would have made abortion records publicly accessible, but that provision was removed before the bill's passage.
The bill also contains a whistleblower provision that permits private individuals to file lawsuits on behalf of the state. Under the measure, successful plaintiffs could receive financial awards of up to $100,000.
Supporters of the bill say it addresses the distribution of abortion pills they contend are being provided illegally, including through online sources. Opponents argue the legislation could discourage people from seeking medical care and expose health care providers to increased legal risk.
A spokesperson for Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates criticized the bill, characterizing it as an expansion of enforcement that could deter patients and clinicians from accessing or providing care.
Senate Bill 236 now moves to the Indiana House for consideration. Supporters of the measure have indicated confidence that it will advance through the House and be sent to the governor for review.