FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 24, 2022
Contact:
Stephanie Gomory, Communications Director, [email protected], 802-223-6304 x111
Montpelier, Vt. – The Supreme Court issued a ruling today overturning Roe v. Wade — the landmark decision recognizing the constitutional right to abortion nearly 50 years ago. The ruling in the case, Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, will set off a chain reaction with states banning abortion and criminalizing essential care throughout entire regions of the country.
The following statement was issued by ACLU of Vermont executive director James Lyall in response to the decision:
“The Supreme Court’s majority opinion in Dobbs now takes its place alongside some of the most disgraceful and notorious court decisions in our nation’s history. By abandoning five decades of legal precedent to repeal a cherished and fundamental right, the Supreme Court has betrayed the American people.
“Clearly, state-level protections are now more vital than ever to safeguarding abortion rights. In Vermont, that starts with passing the Reproductive Liberty Amendment this November, to explicitly enshrine the right to reproductive healthcare in our state constitution.
“The right to decide if and when to become a parent is central to an individual’s dignity and well-being, and Vermonters this year will have the opportunity to protect and affirm that fundamental right for ourselves, our neighbors, and future generations.
“The road ahead is long, and the ACLU will be there every step of the way. We fought for abortion rights before they were recognized by the Supreme Court, and we are not deterred from this fight by today’s decision.”
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