Currently, in NH, most abortions, including medication abortion, are accessible. Unlike the other New England states, however, NH has no legal protections for abortion. We have only restrictions. Women in NH have no constitutional or statutory right to autonomy over her body, or to necessary reproductive healthcare. That healthcare can include birth control, STD testing and treatment, cancer treatment and abortion. The recent Alabama Supreme Court decision regarding IVF should be another wake-up call. NH already criminalizes the provision of abortions after 24 weeks, with only very narrow exceptions. We’re vulnerable to legislative action criminalizing those who choose abortion.

Surveys show widespread support for abortion access. Nearly 90% of Granite Staters support the freedom to make decisions about abortion without government intrusion. I’m quite sure that many families have stories to tell about a “surprise” pregnancy and its impact. A friend referred to her young son as “our mistake.” My family has its own story. We’ve supported organizations dedicated to men’s and women’s access to safe and affordable reproductive healthcare. The Republican NH Executive Council has voted five times to defund New Hampshire non-profits that provide reproductive and sexual healthcare services. That’s federal money that is so necessary for providing the healthcare that NH residents deserve. It’s a sad commentary that a misguided and deeply political decision, the overturn of Roe v. Wade, has brought so much fear and uncertainty. We must elect politicians who will restore our rights and institute real abortion protections, here in NH and in DC.

Kathleen Rooney

Concord