The Virginia Senate voted along party lines to pass Rockbridge Republican Del. Ben Cline’s HB 1090, which would defund Planned Parenthood affiliates and other women’s health centers across Virginia. Having previously passed the House on a largely party-line vote, the bill now goes to the governor.
Said Sen. Barbara Favola (D – Arlington), “This bill puts ideology first and women second. Defunding Planned Parenthood won’t stop abortions — but it will reduce access to cancer screenings, STI testing, and other vital services. Women rely on those services, and it would be a travesty to take them away.”
Said Sen. Mamie Locke (D – Hampton), “Virginia women did not want or need mandatory ultrasounds. They did not want or need the insurance ban on abortion. They do not want or need this bill that targets Planned Parenthood. Once and for all, Republicans need to stop putting partisan goals ahead of women’s health.”
Said Sen. Donald McEachin (D – Henrico), “This bill risks endangering women’s health. It will reduce access to family planning services that actually help to prevent abortions. It also makes it more difficult for women to access regular preventive health care and important cancer screenings. I am deeply disappointed — but, unfortunately, not surprised — that Republicans are again pushing shortsighted, counterproductive policies that harm Virginian women rather than help them.”
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