Letter: 'Controlling My Body'

To the editor:

Bob Hebert, Kim Healy and Michele Coelho describe reproductive freedom laws in CT as “settled” or “codified.” (Ridgefield LWV, Sept 2022). They avoided direct responses when asked about their support for strengthening the laws preserving reproductive freedom as well as protections for healthcare providers and citizens against overreach by States that have restricted access to abortion care—even in the case of rape or the endangerment of maternal health. They never asserted they won’t vote to support new restrictions, mandates or controls. Yet all three of them claim to be advocates of “local control” over schools, zoning and property taxes. These already are locally controlled. But the real battleground for local control is your body. Limiting a women’s sovereignty over her body and reproductive healthcare is government control.

State Representative, Aimee Berger-Girvalo (111th), Candidate Keith Denning (42 nd State House) and State Senator Julie Kushner (24th Senate) are clear. They support CT’s Reproductive Freedom Act. They’ve warned us that the CT House and Senate annually receive 40+ proposed rules adding restrictions on healthcare decision-making and access. They won't vote for them. Healthcare must be up to the woman. Locally control by me.

Susan D. Cocco
Branchville Road