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Proposed New York Constitutional Amendment Aims to Protect Abortion Access
Key Points
- Democrats have filed a lawsuit to include the word "abortion" in the proposed amendment.
- The amendment aims to expand the state's anti-discrimination laws to include protections related to abortion.
- The New York State Legislature has passed an Equal Rights Amendment that would include reproductive rights.
Background
In response to the Supreme Court's overturning of Roe v. Wade, New York lawmakers have introduced a proposed amendment to the state constitution that would explicitly protect abortion access.
The amendment, if approved by voters, would add language to the state constitution stating that every individual has the fundamental right to reproductive healthcare, including abortion.
Legal Challenges
The proposed amendment has faced legal challenges from anti-abortion groups. A lawsuit filed by the Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) argues that the amendment is unconstitutional because it would create a new right to abortion that is not protected by the U.S. Constitution.
The ADF also argues that the amendment is vague and would lead to confusion about the legality of abortion in New York.
Public Support
According to a recent poll conducted by the Siena College Research Institute, 61% of New Yorkers support the proposed amendment.
The poll also found that a majority of New Yorkers believe that abortion should be legal in all or most cases.
Next Steps
The proposed amendment will be on the ballot for voters in November 2024.
If approved, it would become part of the New York State Constitution and would provide strong legal protections for abortion access in the state.
Additional Resources
- New York Times: Abortion Rights Amendment Clears State Legislature
- Washington Post: New York Legislature Passes Abortion Rights Amendment
- CNN: New York State Legislature Passes Abortion Rights Amendment
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