It used to be that the only sign you would see in a public bathroom was a gentle, laminated reminder to perform the most basic of tasks -- wash your hands.
On Tuesday, however, the Oklahoma State Board of Health approved regulations that would require the state's hospitals, restaurants and public schools to post anti-choice information in their bathrooms. Oklahoma won't be funding the effort, so businesses in the state will have to pay for the signs themselves, at an estimated cost of $2.3 million.
SEE ALSO:Satanic Temple stands up to Ohio's heartbeat billThe regulations are scheduled to go into effect on Jan. 1, 2018. Earlier this year, the legislature passed a law requiring that the state develop informational pamphlets and content "for the purpose of achieving an abortion-free society."
Some restaurants and hospitals, forced to foot the cost themselves, have largely resisted the unfunded program.
"It's just another mandate on small businesses. It's not just restaurants. It includes hospitals, nursing homes. It just doesn't make sense," Jim Hooper, president of the Oklahoma Restaurant Association, told The Associated Press.
Credit: sue ogrocki/APThe sign must include the following language, including a link to the Oklahoma State Department's website:
“There are many public and private agencies willing and able to help you carry your child to term and assist you and your child after your child is born, whether you choose to keep your child or to place him or her for adoption. The State of Oklahoma strongly urges you to contact them if you are pregnant.”
The bill also requires the Department of Education to introduce materials to the classroom for "the purpose of achieving an abortion-free society" that "include no component of human sexuality education other than those included in science education standards."
Even nursing homes will be asked to post these materials, which is strange to some, since the majority of that population is not exactly fertile.
(责任编辑:知識)
Here's what 'Game of Thrones' actors get up to between takes
Who is the 'eat the rich' killer in 'You' Season 4?
'The Sims 4' update adds top surgery, binders, and hearing aids
Samsung Galaxy S23 phone cases: 10 unique options for Samsung's new phones
Give your kitchen sponge a rest on this adorable bed
Best deals of the day Feb. 13: 2021 iPad, Dyson V8 Fluffy, Paramount+ gift cards, and more
'Quordle' today: See each 'Quordle' answer and hints for January 12
Bluesky Social is now in the App Store
These glasses hide a fitness tracker on your face
Wordle today: Here's the answer, hints for February 28
Here's George Takei chilling in zero gravity for the 'Star Trek' anniversary
Best deals of the day Jan. 18: 2nd