Assemblywoman Kimberly Jean-Pierre (D-Babylon) announced the passage of two critical pieces of legislation that will strengthen and defend women’s reproductive freedom. The measures would affirm the right to an abortion in New York State (A.1748) and require insurance companies to continue covering contraception at no additional cost to the consumer (A.1378).

“Although New York has safeguarded a woman’s right to choose for over 40 years, our current laws will not adequately protect the access to reproductive health care that has been provided under Roe v. Wade if there are changes at the federal level,” said Jean-Pierre. “This legislation is necessary to achieve full equality and defend these rights that are so crucial to the well-being of women and their families.”

The Assembly’s legislation protects a woman’s right to end a pregnancy during the first 24 weeks or when the pregnancy is not viable or the patient’s life or health are at risk (A.1748). The second bill requires health insurers to cover all FDA-approved contraceptive drugs, devices and products when they are prescribed by a health care provider (A.1378). The legislation leaves in place existing state law that allows religious employers to request an insurance policy that does not cover contraceptive methods.

“As a new mom, I’m committed to ensuring that my daughter grows up in a state where women’s constitutionally guaranteed rights are valued and protected,” said Jean-Pierre. “Both of these measures help build on the progress we’ve fought for and take us one step closer to that goal.”