Bill to Guarantee Abortion Rights Fails in Senate

For Immediate Release: May 11, 2022
Media Contacts: press@prochoice.org; 202-918-7768

Today, a bill to protect the right to abortion in every state failed a vote in the Senate. 

Statement from Melissa Fowler, National Abortion Federation’s Chief Program Officer:

“We appreciate Majority Leader Schumer and Senate Democrats bringing this legislation to a vote to make plain which of our elected leaders believe people should have the right to make medical decisions about their own bodies—and which do not. The leaked draft decision last week was a preview into an alarming future, and while we are glad a vote on this legislation was expedited, we need to put our effort behind passing laws to protect abortion access. 

Even today while Roe is in place, we know the legal right to an abortion is not enough. In many places, people still face restrictions and other burdens that make it incredibly difficult or even impossible to obtain the abortion care they need. While some states have passed proactive protections to ensure abortion remains legal, if lawmakers in those states want to ensure abortion is accessible, they must put additional measures in place to support providers and out-of-state patients. We must meet the draconian attacks on medical care with even more robust protections to ensure everyone has access to the care they need.

Let’s also be clear: Abortion is still a legal right in this country. The leaked draft was only a preview of what could happen once the final Dobbs decision is announced. With a better idea of where the court is leaning, we are working with members to make sure we are as prepared as possible for the official decision. 

The NAF Hotline (1-800-772-9100) can help any patient across the country access funding and travel logistics to safely access abortion care.”