Minnesota Governor Dayton vetoes abortion restrictions

Wednesday, 25 May 2011 16:08

A victory for abortion rights in Minnesota

At a time when many states are attempting to further restrict abortion access,  Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton vetoed a bill that sought to ban coverage of abortion for women who receive health insurance through the state’s Medicaid program.

"All women deserve to be healthy and safe," said Governor Dayton in a letter addressed to the state legislature. "I will not approve a bill that infringes upon a woman's Constitutionally-protected rights, discriminates against a woman because of her socio-economic status, or does not protect her health and safety."

Minnesota is one of only 15 states that covers abortion care for women who qualify for state Medicaid.  Latest statistics show that in 2009, almost 4,000 low-income women and girls were able to obtain abortions because through their Medical Assistance health insurance.  This is indeed a victory for the women of Minnesota.