In Ohio, A Debate About Whether Abortion Counts As An ‘Essential Service’

In Ohio, A Debate About Whether Abortion Counts As An 'Essential Service'

March 21, 2020
Sarah McCammon

Abortion rights groups are accusing the attorney general of Ohio of using the coronavirus crisis to restrict abortion access after clinics in the state were sent letters this week faulting them for not complying with an order aimed at preserving a limited supply of surgical equipment and protective gear.

In a letter dated on Tuesday, Ohio's Department of Health ordered all non-essential surgical and elective procedures postponed so that protective equipment like masks and gowns can be reserved for doctors caring for coronavirus patients. Ohio has seen 174 coronavirus cases and three deaths.

Continued: https://www.npr.org/sections/coronavirus-live-updates/2020/03/21/819356481/in-ohio-a-debate-about-whether-abortion-counts-as-an-essential-service