November, 03 2010, 02:34pm EDT
Colorado Voters Soundly Defeat Dangerous Anti-Choice Amendment for Second Time, Protect a Woman's Right to Choose
Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA) applauds the defeat
in Colorado of a ballot initiative that could have eliminated a woman's
ability to make the most personal, private decisions about her health
care. Amendment 62, which could have extended legal and constitutional
rights to fertilized eggs and could have outlawed abortion and several
forms of contraception, was defeated by a decisive 71-29 percent margin.
WASHINGTON
Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA) applauds the defeat
in Colorado of a ballot initiative that could have eliminated a woman's
ability to make the most personal, private decisions about her health
care. Amendment 62, which could have extended legal and constitutional
rights to fertilized eggs and could have outlawed abortion and several
forms of contraception, was defeated by a decisive 71-29 percent margin.
It is the second time in recent years that Colorado voters have
overwhelmingly rejected the extreme proposed measure that could have
created far-reaching consequences, affecting an estimated 20,000 state
laws.
"By rejecting Amendment 62, Colorado voters have again sent a
strong and clear message that personal, private health care decisions
should be made by women, their doctors, and their families, not by
politicians," said PPFA President Cecile Richards. "Voters want policies
that improve access to health care, not take it away."
Amendment 62, the so-called "personhood Amendment," sought to ban all
abortions, even for victims of rape or incest, and when a woman's life
is at risk. It also could have also resulted in a ban on emergency
contraception and common forms of birth control, as well as blocking the
use of in vitro fertilization, among other reproductive health
services. Put simply, Amendment 62 could have seriously endangered
women's health and family privacy.
The sponsors of Amendment 62, Personhood Colorado, are part of a
national organization, Personhood USA. The group is also working to
introduce similar ballot initiatives in other states in upcoming
elections.
"The overwhelming rejection of Amendment 62 in a moderate
state like Colorado sends a strong message to other states that are
considering similar 'personhood' initiatives: Voters know a threat to
privacy and women' s health when they see one," said Richards.
Nearly 70 state and national organizations joined the NO on 62 Coalition
this year, including doctors, nurses, medical researchers, attorneys,
faith and religious leaders, civil liberties advocates and community and
health advocacy organizations.
Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains was a part of the NO on 62
Coalition and played an important role in educating voters all over
Colorado about the dangerous and extreme impact of Amendment 62, and
persuading voters to reject Amendment 62.
"We are so grateful for this victory in defeating Amendment
62," said Vicki Cowart, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood of the
Rocky Mountains. "This vote demonstrates that Colorado trusts women, and
we are a state that supports women and their families, and we want
policies that support women and their families.
Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA) is many things to many people. We are a trusted health care provider, an informed educator, a passionate advocate, and a global partner helping similar organizations around the world. Planned Parenthood delivers vital health care services, sex education, and sexual health information to millions of women, men, and young people.
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