The state of Indiana has been in the news quite a bit recently as lawmakers continue to debate the legalization of abortion in the state. Last week, Governor Eric Holcomb signed HB 1337 into law, which bans abortions on fetuses diagnosed with Down syndrome or any other disability and also requires that all aborted fetuses be buried or cremated, regardless of age or gestational stage. On Monday, May 8th, large employers Eli Lilly and Cummins have broken their silence on this controversial bill that was passed by both the House and Senate last week.
Eli Lilly One of Indiana’s Largest Employers
Eli Lilly, one of the largest employers in Indiana, said that the new state law limiting abortions will push it to stop hiring at its headquarters.
Lilly issued a statement this Saturday, stating that it recognizes abortion to be a divisive and deeply personal issue among Indiana’s citizens.Eli Lilly said, “Despite this lack of agreement, Indiana adopted one of the most restrictive anti-abortion laws in the United States.” We are concerned that this law will have a negative impact on our — and Indiana’s — ability to attract diverse scientific, engineering, and business talent from around the world. In light of this new law, we will have to plan for more employment growth outside our home state.”
On Friday, the Indiana Legislature became the first in the nation to pass new abortion restrictions since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade.
The state’s legislature was among the first to debate tighter abortion laws after June’s Supreme Court decision that removed constitutional protections for the procedure.
It Employs 10,000 People in Indiana
The company employs 10,000 people in Indiana, where it is headquartered and has done so for more than 145 years. The company, which employs about 10,000 people in Indiana, opposed the new law over the weekend as well.It gives women the same opportunity as other people to participate fully in the workforce and also increases the diversity of our workforce, a company spokesman said in a statement.
Certain provisions in the law impact our people, hinder our ability to attract and retain the best employees, and alter our selection of only welcoming and inclusive environments, said a spokesman for Cummins.
Two More Companies Have Joined the Growing list of Companies
Two companies are now on a growing list of companies, which includes the tech giant Apple and denim retailer Levi Strauss, that are offering resources for reproductive care in states where restrictions have been put into place.
Eli Lilly noted Saturday that although the company has expanded its employee health plan coverage to include travel for reproductive services, some current and prospective employees may not find that sufficient.
Indiana’s abortion ban is scheduled to take effect on Sept. 15. It includes some exceptions, such as cases of rape or incest, as well as cases protecting the life of the mother.
President Joe Biden’s administration has also been adamantly against Indiana’s decision. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, spoke of the action as a devastating step.
And, it’s another attempt by Republican legislators to take away women’s reproductive rights and freedom, and place decisions about their personal health care in the hands of politicians rather than their doctors, she said in a statement.
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