Matt Blumenthal

Representatives Jillian Gilchrest (D-West Hartford) and Matt Blumenthal (D-Stamford), co-chairs of the Reproductive Rights Caucus, held a press conference to announce the Reproductive Rights Caucus 2023 Legislative Agenda on Wednesday, January 25 at the Legislative Office Building.

“Connecticut remains a safe harbor for those seeking reproductive healthcare, which includes abortion, because we have strong leadership in the General Assembly,” said Rep. Gilchrest. “This session, the Reproductive Rights Caucus is focused on policies to expand access to the totality of reproductive healthcare.  We want to ensure that in Connecticut, whether someone decides to have a child or not to have a child, they have access to the information and services they need in order to make the decision that is best for them.”

The Reproductive Rights Caucus was formed in 2022 in response to continued national attacks on Roe v. Wade and reproductive rights and is now more than 40 members strong.

“Our passage last year of the nation-leading Reproductive Freedom Defense Act ensured that Connecticut is a safe haven for reproductive healthcare, including safe, legal abortion and gender-affirming care,” said Rep. Blumenthal. “At least other eight states have followed our lead in adopting its provisions. This session, the Reproductive Rights Caucus will continue pursue an agenda of measures to ensure that, whether you live in Bridgeport or Bozrah, every person in Connecticut can readily access the full spectrum of quality reproductive healthcare services they need and deserve.”

This year’s Caucus Agenda includes a number of priorities to expand access to care, protect reproductive health data, and strengthen protections for providers. Additionally, the Caucus is lending their support to policies that address equitable healthcare access.

“It is a tragedy that we need policies to help women and families across the nation travel to Connecticut for safe, dignified, essential health care,” said Treasurer Erick Russell. “But I’m proud to live in a state that is willing to step up and lead according to our values. The Safe Harbor Fund will be an important resource, and part of a nationwide network of support, for those constrained by the anti-choice laws of their home states. I’m committed to effectively investing and managing that fund, and working with Rep. Gilchrest, Rep. Blumenthal and the Reproductive Rights Caucus to build solutions that meet this moment of crisis.”