We view the plans by the Supreme Court of the United States, to reverse the landmark decision Roe v. Wade, as a bridge too far. The reversal of settled law rooted in the history of this country for nearly 50 years would defy public will. The majority of Americans, including 64% of North Dakotans, support safe, legal abortion and believe we should all have the freedom to make our own health care decisions without interference.
North Dakota Criminal Code 12.1-31-12 states, “It is a class C felony for a person, other than the pregnant female upon whom the abortion was performed, to perform an abortion. This section becomes effective on the thirtieth day after the attorney general certifies to the legislative council the issuance of the judgment in any decision of the United States Supreme Court which, in whole or in part, restores to the states authority to prohibit abortion.”
This “trigger law” will pave the way for unsafe abortions and death in North Dakota. We are deeply concerned for the future of female physical, mental, and health care safety in our state. Women and girls should be allowed to make this immensely private and personal health care decision with their health care provider. Furthermore, denying a person the right to make their own personal decision about whether or not to bear a child is an encroachment on their life, liberty, and happiness.
Elections clearly have consequences. Members of the Supreme Court – specifically Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, and Amy Coney Barrett – lied during their confirmation hearings, are now taking away this personal freedom, and were all appointed by Republican Presidents of the United States in 1991, 2006, 2017, 2018 & 2020. In 2022 and beyond, it is vital to vote for candidates who support gender equality so we can protect our hard-won liberties and tackle the challenges on the horizon.