A Michigan lawmaker has introduced legislation to protect abortion providers and patients from threats, intimidation, and violence.

In January, President Donald Trump pardoned 23 anti-abortion activists, including four from Michigan, prompting Democratic Senator Mallory McMorrow to introduce bills to ban threats, interference, and intimidation related to abortions. The legislation carries penalties for violations, creating state-level safeguards similar to the federal Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act.

McMorrow says the bills have strong bipartisan support, underscoring that the threats go beyond symbolic protests.

“Michigan can ensure that regardless of what happens at the federal level, patients in our state can access legal medical care without fear of physical obstruction or harassment,” McMorrow said. “And healthcare providers can practice medicine without facing violence or intimidation.”

The legislation does exempt First Amendment-protected protests and allows parents to intervene only with their minor children without penalty. McMorrow says the issue isn’t about ideology or politics. It’s about continuing to provide basic safety and access to medical care.

“When activists can physically block patients from entering clinics, when they can break into medical facilities, when they can harass vulnerable patients without consequence, we have failed in our duty to protect both patients and health care providers.”

Opponents warn the bills could limit anti-abortion activists who peacefully try to persuade patients outside clinics, arguing it restricts their First Amendment rights.

The Senate Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety Committee approved the bills Thursday. Next stop is the full Senate.

If passed, Michigan would join 14 other states and Washington, D.C., safeguarding abortion clinic staff and patients from harassment.