Baltimore City Council Passes Crisis Pregnancy Center Accountability Bill

The Baltimore Sun reports that "crisis pregnancy centers in Baltimore must display signs stating they do not provide abortions or birth-control referrals under a measure approved by the City Council Monday night and thought to be the first of its kind in the nation."

So-called crisis pregnancy centers regularly provide misleading and inaccurate information on birth control and abortion, and often espouse religious ideology.  RH Reality Check has published a number of articles analyzing the role of crisis pregnancy centers in misleading clients on reproductive and sexual health issues, a list of which can be found here.

The Sun reports that Baltimore City Council President Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, a Democrat who was lead sponsor of the initiative, called the measure a victory for women's well-being. She cited a study by an advocacy group indicating that women have been misled at pregnancy centers that provide counseling, clothing and food for expectant mothers - but not abortions.

"It's a step towards making sure that women have the information they need to make the right decision for their health and their future," Rawlings-Blake said.

Similar measures have failed in the legislature in several states, including Oregon and Texas, Meister said. A similar bill is being considered by the Montgomery County Council.

The bill, notes the Sun, passed the City Council on a 12-3 vote, and now awaits a decision by Mayor Sheila Dixon, who could either sign or veto the measure, or allow it to become law without her signature. A supporter of abortion rights, Dixon has not indicated whether she backs the plan.

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