This new law modernizes Colorado statute to protect reproductive rights as fundamental rights, which is of increased importance given that the Supreme Court is likely to overturn protections afforded by Roe v. Wade for almost 50 years and ongoing efforts to restrict and criminalize abortions in the United States, which limits access and increases suffering — especially for people of color.
Here is a summary of the legislation:
What it is: Reproductive Health Equity Act (HB22-1279])
What it does: Declares that every individual has a fundamental right to use or refuse contraception; every pregnant individual has a fundamental right to continue the pregnancy and give birth or to have an abortion; and a fertilized egg, embryo, or fetus does not have independent or derivative rights under the laws of the state. (Find out More)
When it takes effect: Immediately. Signed into law by Gov. Jared Polis on April 4.
Other information of note: Our partners at the Colorado Organization for Latina Opportunity and Reproductive Rights (COLOR) led this fight at the Capitol, and we are proud to have supported them. We are also proud of the many members of our community who participated in this year's Latino Advocacy Day to tell the governor and lawmakers to support Reproductive Justice.
Voces Unidas Action Fund contracts with a professional team of lobbyist to advocate for our legislative priorities each year. Local leaders from the central mountain region help identify these legislative priorities and are involved in all parts of our policy work. Click here to learn more about our policy work.