Coalition thanks Senate President Spilka, Speaker Mariano, Chairman Michlewitz, and Chairman Rodrigues for continued commitment to reproductive equity
The Massachusetts Senate and House reached an agreement today on an economic development package that includes a $17.5 million investment to support reproductive health care providers, clinic security, and reproductive health workforce and educational needs. As part of this historic funding, $1 million is earmarked for a public awareness campaign on the dangers of crisis pregnancy centers.
The ACLU of Massachusetts, Reproductive Equity Now, and Planned Parenthood Advocacy Fund of Massachusetts today released the following statements applauding the significant investment in reproductive health care access:“We are so grateful to Speaker Mariano, Senate President Spilka, and Chairs Michlewitz and Rodrigues for championing and proactively investing in reproductive freedom,” said Carol Rose, Executive Director of the ACLU of Massachusetts. “Since the fall of Roe, these leaders have repeatedly demonstrated that Massachusetts will do what is necessary to ensure meaningful access to abortion care. By supporting abortion providers and clinic security and infrastructure, Massachusetts lawmakers have once again risen to the occasion.”
“From the moment the Dobbs decision came down, the Massachusetts Legislature has responded to this public health crisis with conviction and boldness. Abortion bans affect more than just abortion care, and Beacon Hill leadership is meeting this moment with comprehensive funding for the full spectrum of reproductive health care from abortions to miscarriage management to contraception and midwifery services,” said Rebecca Hart Holder, President of Reproductive Equity Now. “Funding for clinic security, infrastructure, and provider training will be critical to meet the needs of an ever-changing abortion landscape post-Roe. We are grateful to Beacon Hill leadership for making this historic investment in reproductive health care that will ensure patients can continue to receive affordable, safe, and compassionate reproductive health care in our Commonwealth.”“At a time when millions of people across the country are losing access to abortion care, investments in Massachusetts’ reproductive health care workforce and clinic infrastructure will boost our ability to provide patients with the care they deserve. We are grateful to House and Senate leadership for this historic investment in abortion access and for continuing to meet this moment with urgency and an unwavering commitment to reproductive freedom,” said Dr. Jennifer Childs-Roshak, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts.
