Quick Bytes
- New York judge halts constitutional amendment on reproductive rights.
- Amendment’s legislative process found to be procedurally flawed.
- Attorney General Letitia James plans to appeal the decision.
- Amendment aimed to protect against discrimination based on reproductive health.
NY Amendment on Reproductive Rights Blocked
A New York Supreme Court judge has put a stop to a significant constitutional amendment aimed at safeguarding reproductive rights, citing procedural errors by the state legislature.
The amendment, which sought to prevent discrimination based on “pregnancy outcomes” and ”reproductive health care and autonomy,” was intended to strengthen abortion access in New York’s legal framework. However, Judge Daniel J. Doyle ruled that the legislative process was rushed, violating the state’s constitutional requirement for a 20-day review period or a response from the attorney general before voting. This decision highlights the importance of following proper legal procedures to reflect the will of the people.
New York Attorney General Letitia James has expressed her disappointment with the ruling and her intention to appeal, emphasizing the amendment’s role in protecting reproductive freedom. The legal battle comes at a time when abortion rights are a hot topic nationwide, with various states considering abortion-related referendums.
As the legislature is required to start the amendment process anew, Attorney General James is also challenging pro-life pregnancy centers, accusing them of providing misleading information about abortion reversal medications. This adds another layer to the complex debate over reproductive rights and the support available to pregnant women in New York.
Image Credits
- Photo credit: Wesley Tingey
