Released on March 9, 2023

Statement by National NOW President Christian F. Nunes 

WASHINGTON–In the eight months since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, one in three women have lost access to abortion care, and over 17 million can no longer access all the reproductive health care they need.  States are rushing to pass more bans and restrictions on abortions, as well as laws that would send women to jail for taking care of their health. 

Senate Democrats know that attacks on reproductive rights are growing crisis that must be stopped—NOW.  That’s why NOW members are excited to support the reintroduction of the Women’s Health Protection Act, which would codify the right to abortion care at the national level. 

Women need to know that no matter your zip code, or who’s in control of your state legislature, your bodily autonomy will be respected—and protected. 

Extremist politicians say they’re protecting women’s health, but it’s really about holding on to their own power over women’s lives.  And once again, the lives that are most at risk are those already dealing with the worst inequity. States with the most restrictive abortion bans have some of the highest rates of Black maternal death—as much as 38% greater than in states without abortion restrictions. 

Women’s lives are at stake.  The Senate must pass the Women’s Health Protection Act. 

Contact: Press Team, press@now.org,