Peoria Standard

Travis Weaver, a House Representative from Illinois, expressed concerns regarding HB3637, stating it would "dangerously authorize the sale of unapproved abortion drugs." This statement was made on the social media platform X.

"BAD IDEA ALERT: HB3637 passed out of committee today," said Travis Robert Weaver, State Representative from Illinois. "It would allow pharma to sell abortion drugs that have not been FDA approved. This place keeps one-upping the worst ideas I've ever heard. The “party of women” pushing unapproved drugs on them… makes sense."

In April 2025, the Illinois House of Representatives passed HB3637. According to Capitol News Illinois, this bill aims to maintain access to abortion medication even if federal approval is withdrawn. The measure also seeks to protect healthcare providers' licenses if they prescribe or dispense such medication. Supporters claim it reinforces reproductive rights, while critics caution that it could conflict with potential future federal rulings.

Mifepristone, an essential medication for inducing abortions, received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2000 for use up to 10 weeks of gestation. The FDA has said that no new safety concerns have been identified and maintains that the drug is safe and effective when used as directed. However, ongoing legal and political challenges continue to impact its availability nationwide.

As of mid-2024, legislation in 14 U.S. states has banned or significantly restricted access to mifepristone, which is used in over half of U.S. abortions. USAFacts reports that state-level restrictions vary considerably, with many states enacting laws independent of FDA guidance. These developments illustrate the broader fragmentation of abortion policy across the United States.

Weaver is a Republican member representing Illinois's 93rd District since 2023. His official biography on the Illinois General Assembly website notes his background in finance and previous role in corporate strategy at Caterpillar before entering politics. He serves on committees related to energy and appropriations and has supported conservative healthcare and reproductive policies.