OTTAWA, Ill. – State Rep. Amy “Murri” Briel, D-Ottawa, issued the following statement in response to Planned Parenthood of Ottawa closing:

“While it’s important to note that women in our area will still be able to access needed reproductive health medications because of expanded mail-order options Planned Parenthood is making available, the closure of the Ottawa facility is a setback for overall care in our community.

Illinois Valley communities have seen a number of critical healthcare providers close or reduce services. That’s why I’ve introduced the Rural Hospital Task Force Act as my very first piece of legislation in this position. My intent is to take a bottom-up approach and lean on local voices to conduct a thorough review of why hospitals and essential health services are closing in our rural communities and how we can effectively expand and improve healthcare services for these rural residents.

By dedicating time and research and implementing this task force, we can prevent these essential services from closing in the neighborhoods where access and affordable care have been long forgotten and where people need it the most.”

Rep. Amy Briel Briel

76th District

Springfield Office:

Springfield, IL 62706

District Office: