Assemblymember Deborah J. Glick, 66th Assembly District, Manhattan, announces Assembly passage of her legislation, A.21, which protects a woman’s right to an abortion by updating New York’s outdated laws.

“New York women deserve to have their own healthcare decisions respected. Abortion is a medical procedure, not a crime. The days of demonizing women’s reproductive healthcare must come to an end. When abortion is illegal women die, and pregnancy is not a risk-free condition. Women, in consultation with healthcare professionals, and not legislators, should make decisions that affect their own health free of interference. After years of fighting for the passage of this essential protection for women, our moment has finally arrived.”

Once a national leader for reproductive rights, New York’s abortion laws are now outdated and harmful to pregnant New Yorkers. The Reproductive Health Act updates abortion laws in a number of critical ways; as a medical procedure, abortion is moved into the Public Health Code, and out of the Criminal Code; pregnant individuals will be protected from being forced to bring a non-viable pregnancy to term; a pregnant individual’s health must be considered for access to an abortion later in a pregnancy; and all medical professionals who are licensed to provide abortions may do so, pursuant to their medical scope of practice. The Reproductive Health Act will remove longstanding harmful and burdensome barriers to accessing reproductive health care and will protect New Yorkers against future federal intrusion.

“I am thrilled that once again, the New York State Assembly has demonstrated its commitment to women’s health by passing reproductive health legislation,” Glick stated.“In 1970, New York State was in the vanguard by abolishing the state’s prohibition on abortion. This predated the U.S. Supreme Court decision Roe v Wade, in 1973. Today it is vital that we update our laws because it is clear that we can no longer count on the federal framework that protected a woman’s health. Unless we update and clarify our laws, New York could be at the mercy of future court decisions. New York State has historically been known for its brave leadership in the fight for reproductive freedom. It is time once again to reaffirm our commitment to protect these rights, by codifying Roe v Wade in New York State law.”

“The New York State Assembly has kept the torch lit for years, and we are extremely excited to be able to pass the torch to a Senate dedicated to the respect of women and the protection of their basic right to make healthcare decisions.”