Oklahoma State Senate
Communications Division
State Capitol
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105

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For Immediate Release: April 26, 2011


Sen. Greg Treat

Senate advances measure to regulate abortion-inducing drugs

The state Senate on Tuesday approved legislation that would require physicians to administer abortion inducing drugs in accordance with U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines. Co-authored by Sen. Greg Treat, House Bill 1970 will protect patients and promote life.

“I’m pleased to have the support of my colleagues in advancing legislation that will defend life and help ensure the safety of women,” said Treat, R-Oklahoma City. “It’s important these drugs are subject to appropriate regulation under the law. Of the eight reported deaths associated with abortion-inducing drugs in the United States, seven were the result of doctors administering the drug outside the approved FDA guidelines.”

Edmond Republican Randy Grau, principal author of the bill, said HB 1970 will also require that patients are scheduled for a follow-up appointment and are made aware of the proper usage and effects of the drugs.

“The intent of this legislation is to ensure the safety of pregnant women and better regulate the dangerous drugs that are used in abortions,” said Grau, R-Edmond. “Each and every patient is different and doctors should be required to perform an exam and follow-up care before being prescribing an abortion-inducing drug. This ensures the drugs are used appropriately and that any adverse effects from the drug can be caught in a follow-up appointment. I appreciate the bipartisan support this legislation has received.”

Daniel McConchie, Vice President of Government Affairs for Americans United for Life praised Senate members for their passage of the measure.

"With this overwhelming vote to regulate dangerous abortion-inducing drugs, Oklahoma continues its leadership role in defending human life and protecting women's health,” he said. “Americans United for Life is proud to have partnered with Senator Treat and Representative Grau on this important legislation."

HB 1970 will return to the House for consideration of Senate amendments.

For more information contact:
Sen. Treat: (405) 521-5632