2023-05-04 02:52:51
Democratic Maryland Governor Wes Moore signed two bills that protect the right to abortion and health care, through Medicaid, for trans people
“In our state, no one should have to justify their humanity.” he pointed Moore during the signing this Wednesday.
Consecration of abortion as a “fundamental right”
In addition to declaring abortion a “fundamental right,” the new bills signed by the governor require public colleges and universities to “develop and implement a plan for reproductive health services,” including ensuring students have access to contraceptives of free sale.
Additionally, judges are prohibited from requiring individuals to provide testimony or evidence in out-of-state cases alleging a violation of criminal law for receiving or assisting with protected health care in Maryland.
other measure regulates the release of medical information to ensure abortion care and procedures remain confidential.
“I want to say to all women who are wondering what will happen, who are worried regarding their future, please hear me out loud and clear: Maryland will always be a safe haven for abortion access and abortion rights,” Moore said.
Nondiscriminatory healthcare
The governor also signed a bill Protecting medical access for transgender people by requiring Medicaid to provide coverage for “affirming care” on a “non-discriminatory basis” beginning January 1, 2024.
This care is carried out with a multidisciplinary approach and seeks to help a person make the transition from their assigned gender to their affirmed gender, that is, the gender by which they want to be known.
While several states, including Minnesota and Colorado, have passed laws protecting gender-affirming care, it has become a important issue within the Republican Party. More than 120 bills focusing on healthcare for transgender patients have been introduced across the country this legislative session, according to data compiled by the American Civil Liberties Union.
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