This is a tragic day in the fight for human rights and women’s rights.

Today, the Supreme Court’s ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization turned back the clock on more than 50 years of established law. SCOTUS has failed us spectacularly.

In history, there are moments that mark a division between “before” and “after.” This is one of those moments.

On the horizon is a future no one wants – where every American’s established constitutional rights are under attack. Where the rates of maternal mortality, and of women and children living in poverty will accelerate rather than diminish. Where we wonder if the next decision could strip away other freedoms in our private lives, like access to contraception and equal marriage.

Every Vermonter and American is owed the right to reproductive liberty. Here in Vermont, we will do everything in our power to protect it.

We saw this coming and today, we must channel our outrage into action. Here are the steps I’m taking:

First, as Vermont’s Lt. Governor, I’ll be doing all I can to help pass Proposal 5 – a proposed amendment to our Vermont Constitution to protect reproductive liberty for all – which will be on the ballot this November. It’s time to organize our communities, friends and neighbors in support of Proposal 5. Learn more about the Reproductive Liberty Amendment and how to get involved here.

Second, as a Vermonter, I’ll be standing with all of you in solidarity and support at rallies across our State. Learn more about a rally in your community here.

Third, as your Congresswoman, I will draw on my experience working in Congress, my training as a human rights lawyer, my work as a law clerk for the Second Circuit Court of Appeals, and my experience as an Assistant Attorney General to counteract this draconian decision by the Supreme Court. Congress is our only hope, and we need federal action now.

I will work to reaffirm reproductive liberty as the law of the land, strengthen women’s healthcare at the national level by codifying Roe v Wade into federal law, defend and expand Title X funding for women’s healthcare providers, and work to repeal the Hyde Amendment which blocks federal funding for abortion care.

Once again, it is time for Vermont to lead the way. I’m ready and I will be with you every step of the way.

Yours,

Molly