Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin (R) vetoed a number of bills, including the bill, on Friday. concentrated About protecting access to contraceptives.
“I look forward to working with the General Assembly to see if we can reach agreement on the language in the future, but today I must act on the language in front of me. There are some bills that are not ready,” Yonkin said. He made this disclosure in a release shared by his office.
“This includes laws related to contraception. Let me be clear: I support access to contraception. But we cannot trample on Virginians’ religious freedom,” he added. Ta.
with his veto statementYonkin said the bill created “overly broad causes of action against political subdivisions, parents, and even medical professionals acting within the scope of their practice based on their professional judgment.”
“That is the issue addressed by the recommendations I sent back to the General Assembly,” he wrote. “I will continue to uphold the oath I took to support and defend the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of Virginia.”
Related bills in the state House and Senate state that “a person has the right to obtain and engage in contraceptives,” and that that right “may not be violated by any law, regulation, or policy that expressly or effectively limits it.” “must not be done.” , delay or prevent access to contraceptives or contraceptive-related information. ”
In his rebuke, Yonkin said contraceptives are already protected by the Constitution. Instead of signing the new law, he reportedly sent back alternative language that made access to contraception a policy. Local Outlet WRC-TV.
But when state officials let his motion lapse, the draft bill was sent to his desk.
Despite the veto, Youngkin reiterated his support for contraceptives.
“Quality health care is essential for women, and contraception remains a critical component in reducing abortions and fostering a culture of living that makes Virginia a great place to raise a family,” Youngkin said in a statement. mentioned in.
In response to the veto, Virginia Democrats slammed the governor.
“Governor Youngkin has proven once again to Virginians that he doesn’t care about their health or their rights,” Virginia Democratic Party Chairwoman Susan Swecker said in a press release.
“Contraception is used to manage a wide range of health conditions, but by choosing not to adhere to it, Youngkin is hurting thousands of people,” she continued, “This is a health and freedom crisis. , both of which Youngkin and the Republican Party continue to carelessly and blatantly ignore. “
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