Walker Commends Governor for Taking Action to Protect Women’s Reproductive Rights

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill. – State Rep. Mark Walker, D-Arlington Heights, is encouraged by a recent executive order from Gov. JB Pritzker to strengthen women’s reproductive rights in Illinois.

“The governor took an important, needed step to ensure that women’s reproductive rights are guaranteed across our state,” Walker said. “It is important that Illinois becomes a leader in ensuring that women have the right to choose what is best for them and their bodies.” 

Pritzker’s executive action follows the recent passage of House Bill 40 and aims to remove barriers from state employee group health insurance plans that could prevent women from exercising their right to choose to have an abortion. Walker has been a champion for women’s reproductive rights and was an early advocate of House Bill 40, which removed a dangerous trigger provision in Illinois law that would have potentially outlawed abortion in the state if Roe v. Wade is overturned by the Supreme Court.

“Beyond passing legislation, we need to make sure that the legislation is actually enforced,” Walker said. “The right to choose is a critically important right for women across our state. I’m encouraged that the governor has made it a priority in the first days of his administration.”