Watson Coleman on the Court’s Whole Woman's Health v. Hellerstedt Decision 2016
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Washington, DC (June 27, 2016) — Today, Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman issued the following statement after the Supreme Court’s decision on Whole Women’s Health v. Hellerstedt. The court struck down HB 2 — the Texas law at issue — in a 5-3 decision.
“Today, the Supreme Court has powerfully reaffirmed a woman’s constitutional right to make her own decisions about her health, family, and future, no matter her zip code. The Justices confirmed what we already knew — the Texas law, and others like it, are not about protecting women — they’re about trying to ban abortion while undermining a woman’s dignity and ability to determine her own future.
“The Court’s decision will help to stem the public health crisis in Texas by allowing remaining clinics to keep their doors open. Furthermore, it paves the way for new clinics to open and meet the needs of the millions of women in underserved areas of Texas. This case has brought into focus just how critical the November election is for protecting the basic constitutional rights of American women — who make up half our nation’s population.
“Take note that this is not the end. We will continue the fight to protect and expand reproductive freedom for all by supporting legislation which respects our rights, elected officials who fight to preserve these rights, and candidates who understand the importance of appointing judges who respect our rights.”
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