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Nov
25
2025

In the News

US Rep. Kelly to introduce 'Wells Act' to protect mothers in labor after woman gives birth in car

Source: ABC7 Chicago

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Illinois Congresswoman Robin Kelly said she will introduce legislation to prevent another woman from being forced to leave a hospital while in labor.

The legislation comes after Mercedes Wells was wheeled out of Franciscan Health in Crown Point, then gave birth minutes later in her car.

Kelly, a candidate for U.S. Senate, now plans to introduce the "Wells Act."

"It urges hospitals to develop and implement a safe discharge labor plan that includes clinical justification for discharge and patient understanding," Kelly said.

Wells and her husband were in attendance at the announcement.

"I don't want anyone to have to experience that during a time they should be happy and overjoyed," Wells said.

Franciscan says the doctor and nurse involved with Wells' care, no longer work at the hospital.

By ABC7 Chicago Digital Team