Connecticut House Bill HJ00008

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/23
• Refer: 1/10/23

Caption

Resolution Proposing A Constitutional Amendment To Protect The Right To An Abortion.

Impact

The passage of HJ00008 would signify a major shift in how the state handles reproductive rights, providing a clear legal foundation for those seeking abortions. By elevating this right to a constitutional level, the bill would likely limit the effectiveness of certain laws that aim to restrict access to abortion services. Proponents argue that this is a necessary step to protect individuals' rights to choose and ensure that such choices can be made without undue government interference.

Summary

HJ00008 is a proposed House Joint Resolution that seeks to amend the state constitution to protect the right to an abortion. This resolution proposes to ensure reproductive freedom by allowing individuals, in consultation with their physicians, to choose to have an abortion. The main intent behind this proposal is to enshrine reproductive rights within the constitutional framework of the state, making it more difficult for future legislatures to impose restrictions on abortion access.

Contention

This bill has sparked significant debate among lawmakers and advocacy groups. Supporters emphasize the importance of protecting individual rights and ensuring that decisions about reproductive health are left to women and their healthcare providers. Conversely, opponents argue that constitutionalizing the right to an abortion could lead to an expansion of abortion access that may not align with public sentiment in certain areas. There are concerns that the amendment could undermine existing state laws aimed at regulating abortion services, leading to a legal landscape that favors unrestricted access.