The Oklahoma House passed HB4327,  by Rep. Wendi Stearman, R-Collinsville, which allows private civil lawsuits to be filed against any person who knowingly performs or attempts to perform an abortion except in cases of medical emergency to save the life of the mother.

Stearman said, “This bill will induce compliance as no abortion provider will be willing to risk the lawsuits they would face if they violate this act.”

The bill would allow civil action against anyone who knowingly engages in conduct to aid or abet an abortion, including paying through insurance or otherwise. Statutory damages of not less than $10,000 for each abortion performed or induced as well as nominal and compensatory damages for harm suffered and courts costs and fees would be assessed for those found guilty of violating the law.

Stearman said the provisions of the bill seek to anticipate and negate possible legal challenges. The language in the bill closely mirrors the Texas heartbeat bill and similar legislation passed in Idaho, which has withstood multiple legal challenges to date.

Even if Roe v. Wade were to be overturned by the U.S. Supreme Court, Stearman said, this bill is necessary.