Chicago City Wire

One of the state’s leading pro-life groups has come out against Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s signing of a bill stripping parents' rights during the abortion process for minors.

Eric Scheidler, executive director of the Pro-Life Action League, is among the conservative critics who said the change will lead to harm in society.

“J.B. Pritzker has betrayed Illinois parents today by repealing our state's Parental Notice of Abortion Act, which has saved thousands of young women from making the horrible choice to abort their children. Sexual predators will celebrate, as it will now be easier to have evidence of their crimes swept away by the abortionist. Adding insult to injury, Pritzker signed this bill late on a Friday, just a week before Christmas, avoiding any public protest. Illinois parents will not forget this act of cowardice and injustice in next year's gubernatorial election," Scheidler said in a statement. 

The repealed law had mandated a 48-hour notice for any minor seeking an abortion in Illinois.

Over the past decade, Illinois has experienced a climb in the number of abortions — nearly double.  

Illinois abortion providers are preparing for a five-fold increase in the number of abortions — mostly from those traveling in from out of state as conservative-led states have rolled back abortion rights.

Pritzker signed the bill after a historic U.S. Supreme Court decision allowing civil penalties against abortion providers that appears to allow states to end the practice.

Bishop Thomas John Paprocki of the Diocese of Springfield has also weighed in on the legislation.

“[T]he government has provided evil the cover of darkness in which it thrives. The devil desires darkness and despises the light," Paprocki said. "It is striking how much this legislation does to provide cover, secrecy, and darkness over evil deeds.”

Pritzker’s press release announcing the repeal commended the bill's proponents.  

“With reproductive rights under attack across the nation, Illinois is once again establishing itself as a leader in ensuring access to healthcare services,” Pritzker said. “This repeal was essential, because it was the most vulnerable pregnant minors who were punished by this law: victims of rape and physical abuse in unsafe homes. I thank Representative Anna Moeller, Senator Elgie Sims and the lawmakers and advocates who have fiercely fought to repeal this law and keep vulnerable young people safe. I’m proud that Illinois continues to be a national leader in protecting reproductive rights.”