Media contact(s):
Mary Louise Madigan: (216) 698-2521; mlmadigan@cuyahogacounty.us 

CUYAHOGA COUNTY, OH — Cuyahoga County Executive Armond Budish announced plans today to provide health care supports for County employees and residents after the Supreme Court’s ruling on Roe v. Wade on June 24th.

Executive Budish is proposing the below policy and service initiatives to County Council:

1. The County will propose a benefit to County employees allowing them access to reproductive health care services, including abortion care. This benefit would assist with transportation, lodging, and related costs. The County would provide this benefit with the utmost focus on protecting the privacy of employees.
2. The County will propose to County Council financial grants to local and state organizations providing similar health care services to residents, allowing them to access services as needed.
3. The County will be proposing financial grants to support local organizations that provide education regarding reproductive health care options, which include abortion care. These organizations may need additional support to supply these vital education services due to a potential increase in demand.
4. The County will propose a reproductive health nondiscrimination ordinance that prohibits discrimination, termination, or other loss of public accommodation because of a reproductive health decision.

“The Supreme Court’s ruling on Roe v. Wade set women back 50 years, and is just the beginning for what could be a host of rights stripped from women in America,” said County Executive Armond Budish. “As county government, I believe we are in this together, and we want to be as supportive as we can during this difficult time. That’s why we’re proposing these initial actions today, and look forward to working with local partners on other ideas and strategies going forward.”