The following statement was issued by the ACLU of NC Executive Director Chantal Stevens in response to reporting of a leaked draft opinion from the US Supreme Court that would overturn Roe v. Wade:
“Each of us should be able to make the personal health care decisions that impact our lives, health, and futures. Abortion is still legal in North Carolina and will remain legal after the U.S. Supreme Court officially announces their decision. Today, patients can access the abortion care they need.
“This leaked opinion is a draft and does not represent the Supreme Court’s official decision. However, if the Supreme Court does issue a majority opinion that aligns with the draft, it will have a devastating impact on reproductive healthcare and abortion access across the country and in North Carolina. Access to abortion is already limited in our state. Lawmakers have consistently attacked residents’ right to choose by radically restricting access to safe, legal, and affordable abortion care. These restrictions disproportionately impact people of color, low-income communities, and people who live in rural areas.
“The draft decision highlights that we are one election away from losing access to the freedom to make personal healthcare decisions. Abortion is under threat and patients and providers are scared. Should a decision be issued that overturns Roe v. Wade, North Carolina providers expect to see an influx of patients from neighboring Southern states with more restrictive abortion policies. Ensuring that abortion remains legal in North Carolina will be critical not only to North Carolinians, but to these patients seeking care from out of state.
“Whatever the final decision says, there are ways you can help. Our midterm elections will be crucial in ensuring that abortion remains legal in North Carolina. Additionally, contributing to local abortion providers and funds, such as the Carolina Abortion Fund, is a great way to assist patients who need help now.
“Abortion is a legal medical procedure and politicians have no business intruding on a person's private and personal health care decisions. We will never back down and never stop fighting for a person's right to decide when and if to have a child."
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