CHICAGO – Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner, who ran for office stating he had no social agenda, today announced that he would sign HB40 – a bill that provides taxpayer funding of abortion and ensures that abortion remains legal in Illinois despite what the Supreme Court of the United States may decide regarding Roe v. Wade.
Rauner released the following statement:
“I understand abortion is a very emotional issue with passionate opinions on both sides. I sincerely respect those who believe abortion is morally wrong. They are good people motivated by principle.
“But, as I have always said, I believe a woman should have the right to make that choice herself and I do not believe that choice should be determined by income. I do not think it’s fair to deny poor women the choice that wealthy women have.
“That is why I am signing HB40.
“This is not a new position – I campaigned on this principle in 2014 and it is a principle I have tried to live up to throughout my life.
“I have spent the past couple of months talking to people on both sides of this issue. I have also spent a lot of time meeting with women across Illinois and listening to their personal stories, particularly low-income women who do not have the same luxuries that many of us have. Their stories and their struggles are real and they have touched me in a very personal way. They deserve to have a choice as much as anyone else.
“I know there will be many people who disagree and I respect their opinions. I respect their passion. It is my hope that good people can disagree respectfully and can come together on other important issues that affect our state.”
Video of the event will be posted here.
