Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement after the Supreme Court struck down a Massachusetts law allowing for a 35-foot, protest-free zone around facilities that provide abortion services.
“Women, and the health care professionals that serve them, deserve to be free from intimidation and violence. While the Supreme Court today reaffirmed the government’s interest in protecting safe access to health care, this decision could put thousands of women, their loved ones, and providers at greater risk for harm.
“These perimeters were endorsed by public safety officials in response to growing threats and intimidation aimed at clinic patients and providers by anti-choice extremists. Those seeking and providing legal reproductive health care services should not face the type of harassment and denigration that too often creates an atmosphere of violence.
“Free speech is a critical American value, but so is public safety. I will be working with my colleagues in the Senate to ensure the women that rely on these facilities for affordable health services have the protection and access they deserve.”
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