Michigan Democrats Propose Reproductive Health Data Bill

Michigan Democrats are urgently working to pass legislation aimed at protecting reproductive health data, particularly from menstrual cycle tracking apps, before Republicans assume control of the state House in January 2025. The proposed 'Reproductive Health Data Privacy Act' would prohibit entities from collecting or processing reproductive health data without informed consent and restrict the use of such data solely for intended services. This legislative push arises from heightened concerns over privacy following the U.S. Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, which has led to fears that health information could be misused against individuals seeking abortions. Governor Gretchen Whitmer supports this initiative, highlighting its importance in safeguarding sensitive medical data. Republicans, however, argue that the bill could limit anti-abortion advertising and have voiced strong opposition to its provisions. The urgency of the bill's passage reflects a broader trend of state-level legislative actions to secure reproductive health rights in the wake of shifting political landscapes.