A first-of-its-kind bipartisan abortion bill aimed at safeguarding the lives of pregnant women in South Dakota is on its way to Governor Noem's desk. The Med Ed Bill, sponsored by several lawmakers, including Sen. Erin Tobin and Rep. Taylor Rehfeldt, seeks to provide clarity to medical professionals regarding emergency care for pregnant women under the state's life at conception law.

The bill, which received overwhelming support in the Senate with a 31-3 vote, is designed to combat misinformation surrounding abortion laws and ensure that pregnant women can access necessary emergency care. Kelsey Pritchard, state public affairs director for SBA Pro-Life America, praised the legislation, stating, "South Dakota is showing the rest of the nation how to protect women’s lives from the misinformation surrounding abortion laws."

Sen. Erin Tobin emphasized the importance of the bill, stating, "Our laws have always allowed moms to receive treatment for miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, as well as lifesaving care and medical emergency, and they still do." Tobin further highlighted that the Med Ed Bill serves as a proactive measure to clarify the state's laws and provide reassurance to families and communities.

Support for the bill was strong during the legislative process, with key stakeholders such as Gov. Kristi Noem's office, the Department of Health, the Attorney General’s Office, SD Right To Life, and Sanford Health expressing their approval. Ally Brandner, lobbyist for Sanford Health, commended the bill, acknowledging the importance of providing clarity on emergency care for pregnant women.

Under HB 1224, educational materials will be developed in collaboration with the Department of Health, the attorney general, medical professionals, and legal experts. These materials will cover essential information such as the state’s abortion law, common medical conditions that pose a threat to pregnant women, standards of care in medical emergencies, and the use of medical judgment by practitioners.

The Med Ed Bill represents a significant step towards ensuring the well-being of pregnant women in South Dakota by providing clear guidelines for medical professionals and promoting a better understanding of existing laws.