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

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.

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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.

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"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.