We are thrilled to announce that the scores for our congressional candidate scorecards are now available for public viewing. Each candidate received the same questionnaire and an equal amount of time to complete it. Our organization, led by volunteers, employs a blind scoring process, relying solely on questionnaire responses. Scoring was conducted using a standardized rubric and based solely on the content of each candidate's responses, without consideration of their policy record or legislative history. We depend on candidates to provide complete information for grading. Additionally, each questionnaire was independently graded by at least two board members, and any identifying information was redacted prior to grading to ensure a non-biased review.
MD-02:
Harry Bhandari
Have you actively advocated for reproductive justice issues through public statements, campaigns, community engagement, or in your previous public service roles? If yes, please give examples.
"I have co-sponsored and voted in favor of every reproductive justice bill that has come through my committee, the Health and Government Committee. Among these, I supported and voted for House Bill 705, the Reproductive Freedom Constitutional Amendment. This bill establishes a constitutional right to abortion and other reproductive healthcare services, offering Maryland voters the chance to decide if this fundamental right should be enshrined in our state constitution. This represents the highest level of protection we can afford Marylanders, especially after last summer's U.S. Supreme Court decision that overturned the landmark 1973 Roe v. Wade decision. Furthermore, I supported House Bill 477, which focuses on reproductive services at higher education institutions. This bill mandates that public higher education institutions in the state, in consultation with their students, develop and implement a reproductive health services plan. This plan aims to refer students to a comprehensive range of reproductive health services, whether on-campus or off-campus and requires universities and colleges to provide 24-hour access to over-the-counter contraception. Additionally, I co-sponsored HB0812, which was passed by our governor. This legislation extends the Abortion Care Access Act, establishing the Protected Health Care Commission and ensuring the protection of patients' private information. My commitment to reproductive rights is unwavering, and I will never remain passive when there is an opportunity to strengthen these laws. This isn’t a recent position for me. As long as I have been in office, I have stood in solidarity with the people. I have and will always support reproductive justice."
Have you collaborated with reproductive justice advocacy groups and organizations in the past to shape or support legislation, budget requests, or other policy initiatives? If yes, please give examples.
"Yes, throughout my tenure, I have consistently worked hand in hand with reproductive justice advocacy groups and organizations to shape, support, and advance legislation, budget requests, and other policy initiatives. My commitment to reproductive rights has always involved standing shoulder-to-shoulder with advocates to pass critical bills. Our success reflects the efforts of our unified front. For example, in collaboration with organizations such as Reproductive Justice and NARAL, I have not only supported but also actively contributed to the development and passage of key pieces of legislation. These collaborations have been instrumental in informing my stance and votes on issues surrounding reproductive health and rights. This partnership approach ensures that the legislation I support and help to pass is deeply aligned with the needs and rights of individuals, embodying the principles of reproductive justice at every step."
Recognizing the significant racial disparities in reproductive healthcare outcomes, particularly for Black and Indigenous communities, do you have a plan to address these disparities at the federal level? Please explain
"As a legislator, who has consistently voted for and supported reproductive rights, I am committed to addressing the significant racial disparities in reproductive healthcare outcomes, particularly for Black and Indigenous communities. My plan at the federal level includes: - Increasing Federal Support: Enhancing funding for community health centers in underserved areas to improve access to reproductive healthcare. - Educational Initiatives: Implementing training for healthcare providers on cultural competency and bias reduction to ensure equitable care. - Policy Reforms: Supporting policies that expand healthcare coverage, including strengthening the Affordable Care Act and broadening Medicaid to cover more reproductive services. - Research and Data Collection: Funding research to understand and address the root causes of healthcare disparities. - Community Collaboration: Working closely with advocacy groups and affected communities to ensure policies meet their specific needs. Through these focused efforts, I aim to make equitable reproductive healthcare a reality for all, regardless of race or ethnicity."
Acknowledging the intrinsic link between gender-affirming care and reproductive justice, do you have a plan to ensure that transgender and non-binary folks have equal access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare? Please explain
"Trans rights are human rights. Gender-affirming care is life-saving and I will always vote with that in mind. I am committed to ensuring transgender and non-binary individuals have equal access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare. Gender-affirming care, encompassing medical, mental health, and social services, is essential for the well-being of those experiencing gender dysphoria. It includes a range of supports, from social transitions to medical interventions like puberty blockers, under informed consent. My plan to support equitable access includes: - Legislative Action: I voted for and defended legislation in the General Assembly, specifically on the Health and Government Operations Committee, to protect and expand access to gender-affirming and reproductive healthcare. I will do the same in the congress. - Provider Training: Advocating for education programs for healthcare providers on the unique needs of transgender and non-binary patients. - Insurance Expansion: Pushing for broader insurance coverage of gender-affirming treatments as integral to reproductive healthcare. - Engaging Communities: Working directly with transgender and non-binary communities to tailor healthcare policies to their needs. - Raising Awareness: Promoting understanding of gender-affirming care as a critical component of healthcare equity. I aim to champion healthcare rights and access for all, ensuring that transgender and non-binary individuals receive the care they deserve."
Do you support any legal restrictions, including gestational age, on an individual’s ability to obtain abortion care from a licensed health care provider? Please explain
I do not support legal restrictions on abortion care, including gestational age limits, as I believe in the importance of individual autonomy and the right to make healthcare decisions in consultation with a healthcare provider. Restrictions based on gestational age can hinder access to necessary care and overlook the complex circumstances that might lead someone to seek abortion services. I believe in reproductive freedom and bodily autonomy. If elected, I will always advocate for unrestricted access to safe and legal abortion services to ensure healthcare equity and compassion for all individuals.
Considering the proven positive impact comprehensive sex education has on students' decision-making and overall sexual health outcomes, do you have a plan to collaborate with education authorities to implement and standardize evidence-based comprehensive reproductive and sexual health programs? Please explain.
Understanding the profound impact that comprehensive sex education has on students' decision-making and overall sexual health outcomes, I am dedicated to ensuring the implementation and standardization of evidence-based reproductive and sexual health programs in our schools. As both a teacher and a legislator, and with my experience on Maryland's Health and Government Operations Committee, I bring a unique perspective to this issue. In my role as a congressman, I will fight tirelessly to collaborate with educational authorities, including the Department of Education, to guarantee that our educational content is informed by the most current scientific and psychological research. My commitment is to safeguard our children's education from being compromised by outdated or unsupported beliefs. By championing comprehensive sex education, I aim to equip our youth with the essential knowledge and skills for making informed decisions about their sexual health, thereby fostering a safer, healthier community for all.
John "Johnny O" Olszewski Jr.
Have you actively advocated for reproductive justice issues through public statements, campaigns, community engagement, or in your previous public service roles? If yes, please give examples.
Yes. In September 2021, Baltimore County joined an amicus brief filed in the U.S. Supreme Court Case, Dobbs v Jackson Women’s Health Organization, in support of Jackson Women’s Health–challenging the State of Texas’s unconstitutional ban on abortion care. Here in Maryland in 2022, we were proud to advocate for and in addition to submitting a letter of support for HB937, the Abortion Care Access Act, I testified alongside advocates and the bill sponsor (and Senate President) Bill Ferguson. Not only do we need to guarantee the constitutional right to an abortion, but we must also ensure that the resources are in place for people to access that care.
Have you collaborated with reproductive justice advocacy groups and organizations in the past to shape or support legislation, budget requests, or other policy initiatives? If yes, please give examples.
Yes. We are proud to consistently support safe, affordable, and accessible abortion care in Maryland. We have taken action in Baltimore County to remove barriers and support organizations providing these critical services, and will continue to testify in support of solutions and funding. Baltimore County is only one of two Maryland jurisdictions to sign onto an amicus brief to help preserve the constitutional right to abortion access. We have also worked with advocacy groups to support policy initiatives here in Maryland, like HB937 discussed above.
Recognizing the significant racial disparities in reproductive healthcare outcomes, particularly for Black and Indigenous communities, do you have a plan to address these disparities at the federal level? Please explain
Yes. Addressing racial disparities in reproductive healthcare outcomes is a critical priority. We cannot ignore the systemic injustices that have led to these disparities, particularly for Black and Indigenous communities. First and foremost, we must ensure equitable access to reproductive healthcare services for all communities, regardless of race. This includes expanding access to affordable contraception, comprehensive sex education, and family planning services in underserved communities. We must also work to eliminate barriers to accessing abortion care, such as restrictive laws and lack of funding for reproductive healthcare clinics. Additionally, we need to address the underlying social determinants of health that contribute to disparities in reproductive healthcare outcomes. This includes addressing systemic racism and discrimination in healthcare systems, as well as addressing social and economic inequalities that affect access to healthcare services. We must invest in programs and initiatives that address these disparities, such as community-based health programs, initiatives to address maternal mortality rates, and efforts to expand access to healthcare in underserved communities.
Acknowledging the intrinsic link between gender-affirming care and reproductive justice, do you have a plan to ensure that transgender and non-binary folks have equal access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare? Please explain
Yes. I believe everyone should have access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare. Any resources to provide reproductive healthcare and sex education will go towards everyone, regardless of gender.
Do you support any legal restrictions, including gestational age, on an individual’s ability to obtain abortion care from a licensed health care provider? Please explain
"I firmly believe in a woman's right to make her own healthcare decisions, including the decision to obtain abortion care. I support access to safe and legal abortion without unnecessary restrictions. The decision to seek abortion care is often complex and deeply personal, and it should be made by individuals in consultation with their healthcare providers, based on their unique circumstances and needs. Imposing arbitrary restrictions only serves to undermine reproductive freedom and access to essential healthcare services. Instead of focusing on restricting access, we should prioritize policies that support comprehensive sex education, affordable contraception, and access to reproductive healthcare services, including abortion care. We must also work to address the underlying social and economic factors that can affect reproductive health outcomes, such as poverty, lack of healthcare access, and systemic inequalities."
Considering the proven positive impact comprehensive sex education has on students' decision-making and overall sexual health outcomes, do you have a plan to collaborate with education authorities to implement and standardize evidence-based comprehensive reproductive and sexual health programs? Please explain.
Yes. As a former public school teacher, I recognize that reproductive justice must start in the classroom. If students do not receive a quality sex education, they will not be able to make informed decisions and it will only further the current inequities already plaguing our system. As Baltimore County Executive, I have worked closely with our school system to ensure they have the resources necessary to provide sex education.
Clint Spellman
Have you actively advocated for reproductive justice issues through public statements, campaigns, community engagement, or in your previous public service roles? If yes, please give examples.
I have not made any public statements statement but I have always been for pro choice. everyone woman has the right to choose their own decision of what is best for their health.
Have you collaborated with reproductive justice advocacy groups and organizations in the past to shape or support legislation, budget requests, or other policy initiatives? If yes, please give examples.
At this time I have not but I will in the very near future.
Recognizing the significant racial disparities in reproductive healthcare outcomes, particularly for Black and Indigenous communities, do you have a plan to address these disparities at the federal level? Please explain
yes putting together a plan for all communities Black and indigenous communities. to abolish abortion ban laws in these communities but also for all communities that are effective by these restrictions to have an abortion.
Acknowledging the intrinsic link between gender-affirming care and reproductive justice, do you have a plan to ensure that transgender and non-binary folks have equal access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare? Please explain
yes all Gender and non-bindery people will have the excess to healthcare and reproductive healthcare as any other united states citizens. my plan is to abolish any bigot legations of gender affirming of excess healthcare and reproduction healthcare.
Do you support any legal restrictions, including gestational age, on an individual’s ability to obtain abortion care from a licensed health care provider? Please explain
No I do not.
Considering the proven positive impact comprehensive sex education has on students' decision-making and overall sexual health outcomes, do you have a plan to collaborate with education authorities to implement and standardize evidence-based comprehensive reproductive and sexual health programs? Please explain.
yes, the education of sex education is very important to our students, my goal is to abolish ban on sex education on the federal level. we cannot continue to keep our young people ignorant to sex. sex is a part of life and does not happen only if you are married. that is childish and overall giving them an unrealistic way of life.
MD-03:
Clarence Lam
Have you actively advocated for reproductive justice issues through public statements, campaigns, community engagement, or in your previous public service roles? If yes, please give examples.
Yes. As a preventive medicine physician, I have firsthand experience with these issues, and I recognize that the right to reproductive care and abortion care is a fundamental right. The Supreme Court decision in Dobbs and the subsequent action by right-wing state legislatures to further limit access to reproductive care and punish individuals seeking it is dangerous and there need to be efforts taken at the federal level to reverse this alarming trend. In the Maryland General Assembly, I have sponsored various pieces of legislation that seek to protect reproductive rights. This includes successful bills that guaranteed one year of prenatal and postpartum healthcare coverage to pregnant women regardless of immigration status, made pregnancy a qualifying life event to allow pregnant individuals to sign up for insurance, and expanded the practice of Certified Midwives. Beyond that, I co-sponsored the 2022 Abortion Care Access Act, which codified the right of Marylanders to access abortion care regardless of action taken at federal level. I am currently also serving as the primary sponsor on legislation to strengthen the state’s abortion care shield law to ensure that anti-choice states cannot access private medical records and punish individuals for previous actions taken.
Have you collaborated with reproductive justice advocacy groups and organizations in the past to shape or support legislation, budget requests, or other policy initiatives? If yes, please give examples.
"Yes. A list of bills and organizations I’ve collaborated on those bills with is below. Planned Parenthood of Maryland: • Sponsored legislation to create a license for certified midwives (including a scope of practice that encompasses abortion). • Assisted the floor defense of the state's telehealth update. • Sponsored legislation to extend the state shield law to include gender-affirming care. Trans Rights Advocacy Coalition: • Floor led the Trans Health Equity Act. • Sponsored legislation to extend the state shield law to include gender-affirming care. Public Justice Center Access to Health and Public Benefits Project: • Sponsored legislation to require Medicaid reimbursement for doula services. Robyn Elliott and the National Health Law Program: • Sponsored legislation to repeal the ban on selling OTC drugs in vending machines (to allow the sale of emergency contraception, and in preparation of FDA approval of OTC contraceptives (e.g., Opill). American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: • Sponsored legislation to make pregnancy a qualifying life event for insurance enrollment. • Sponsored legislation to require Medicaid to cover prenatal and postpartum care regardless of immigration status. (The bill was designed so that once the Abortion Care Access Act passed, we would be extending abortion coverage to this program automatically.) • Sponsored legislation to create a license for genetic counselors. NARAL-MD (now Pro-choice Maryland): • Sponsored legislation to require schools to provide needed accommodations to pregnant students."
Recognizing the significant racial disparities in reproductive healthcare outcomes, particularly for Black and Indigenous communities, do you have a plan to address these disparities at the federal level? Please explain
Yes. The United States is the most powerful and wealthy country in the entire world, but our maternal mortality rate is only rising and is more in line with a developing country than a global leader. Over the last 20-plus years it’s rising for all women, and it’s Black and Brown communities that are suffering the worst outcomes. Additionally, people of color have had limited access to reproductive and abortion care well before the fall of Roe. For many of these communities, Roe's promise was never fulfilled. This has been in large part due to a lack of attention to access issues. At the state level, I’ve consistently worked to try and address reproductive health disparities, including sponsoring legislation to increase access to healthcare coverage for expecting mothers, guarantee one year of prenatal and postpartum healthcare coverage to all pregnant women, and expand the use of Certified Midwives and doulas, which have both been shown to improve health outcomes for new mothers, especially mothers from marginalized communities. At the federal level, I would support similar action, as well as support efforts to repeal the Hyde Amendment in order to guarantee that expecting and new mothers—particularly low-income women, and women of color—are receiving the vital care they need throughout and following their pregnancies. Additionally, we must repeal the Church and Coats Amendments which have been barriers to supporting provide abortion training in medical schools.
Acknowledging the intrinsic link between gender-affirming care and reproductive justice, do you have a plan to ensure that transgender and non-binary folks have equal access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare? Please explain
Yes. At the state level, I’ve supported many pieces of legislation to protect transgender and nonbinary Marylanders. Last session, I led the floor defense of the Trans Health Equity Act, which expanded Medicaid coverage of gender-affirming care. I am currently sponsoring legislation to add gender-affirming care to the state’s abortion and reproductive health shield law in order to protect Marylanders seeking gender-affirming care and their providers from out-of-state attacks. This legislation is essential to protecting the health and well-being of transgender and non-binary Marylanders and to ensuring that out-of-state actors are not able to get around our abortion shield to attack providers like Planned Parenthood, who provide abortion care, broader reproductive healthcare, and gender-affirming care. Additionally, this year, I am sponsoring legislation to update the state’s numerous anti-discrimination laws to ensure they all include gender identity and sexual orientation as protected classes. If elected to Congress, I would support the passage of the Equal Access to Reproductive Care Act to eliminate the unequal treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals seeking reproductive care because all families seeking reproductive care should be able to access that care, regardless of their gender or sexual orientation. Additionally, I believe Congress must act to increase federal protection for gender-affirming care, including updating the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act to include providers of gender-affirming care.
Do you support any legal restrictions, including gestational age, on an individual’s ability to obtain abortion care from a licensed health care provider? Please explain
No. The discussion over whether to seek or obtain abortion care should be a conversation between a pregnant woman and their doctor. Politicians should not be dictating abortion policy, and restrictions can place the life of the mother and baby at risk. To further protect women at any stage of their pregnancy, I’m currently sponsoring a bill in this legislative session to guarantee that Maryland women, regardless of the stage of their pregnancy or federal law, can have access to life-saving abortion care in the emergency room in anticipation that the U.S. Supreme Court will likely strike protections for women needing abortions in emergency rooms that are currently guaranteed in EMTALA.
Considering the proven positive impact comprehensive sex education has on students' decision-making and overall sexual health outcomes, do you have a plan to collaborate with education authorities to implement and standardize evidence-based comprehensive reproductive and sexual health programs? Please explain.
Yes. It’s of the utmost importance that we’re giving students comprehensive sex education. This is necessary to provide students with all the information possible to allow them to make informed choices regarding sex. In the 2023 session, I sponsored legislation that would have required local school systems to create a health education curriculum that aligned with state framework. At the federal level, I would seek to take additional steps and push states to develop comprehensive sex education curriculum that are promoted and promulgated to local districts.
Terri Hill
Have you actively advocated for reproductive justice issues through public statements, campaigns, community engagement, or in your previous public service roles? If yes, please give examples.
"Part of my main campaign platform is reproductive justice with a focus on preventing further erosion of reproductive rights across the nation and restoring the right to abortion and to bodily autonomy and health care access to all Americans and U.S. residents. My legislative record demonstrates advocacy for and support of the full range of issues, including: widened and improved access to abortion, other birth control, STD prevention and treatment, and birthing options (i.e. removing barriers to use of nurse and direct-entry midwives and doula services); LGTBQ+ reproductive health care access, parity, and protections; protection of funding to Planned Parenthood and other community health clinics; understanding and addressing high and disparate rates of maternal, fetal, and infant mortality and morbidity; and codifying a constitutional right to abortion. Notably, as a legislator in the Maryland General Assembly, I introduced and passed HB0808/SB859 – Reproductive Health Protection Act, which protects persons receiving, providing, or assisting anyone in Maryland in the accessing of reproductive health services that are legally protected in Maryland – including abortions - from sharing associated medical records in response to a subpoena or other legal requests from another state purposed on facilitating an investigation or prosecution, civil or criminal, of that care as an alleged violation of the other state’s laws. Also, it places prohibitions on how Maryland judges and the Governor must respond to related legal inquiries originating from outside our state to health care that is legally protected in Maryland. This was one of four bills, all enacted, constituting leadership’s 2023 Reproductive Health Protections Bill Package. As a physician and woman of color who knows well this country’s history of controlling the uterus as a tool of oppression, I fully appreciate the significance of ongoing coordinated efforts to retreat on reproductive freedom, particularly when done in the name of religion, and its potentially devastating impact on individual, privacy, civil, and human rights writ large. In this moment, with so much on the line for current and future generations, the stake could not be higher. I have the experience, skills, standing, and passion required to fully engage and lead on this fight in Congress and deliver the results we’ve had in Maryland to Americans across the country.
Have you collaborated with reproductive justice advocacy groups and organizations in the past to shape or support legislation, budget requests, or other policy initiatives? If yes, please give examples.
I am considered a reliable ally of reproductive advocacy groups, collaborating, and supporting advocacy efforts while asking the tough questions to help ensure the best policy outcomes for our shared constituencies and legislative goals. I bring a unique perspective because of my decades-long experience in healthcare as a physician and plastic surgeon. I have been endorsed in my past legislative campaigns by NARAL, Pro-Choice Maryland and Planned Parenthood.
Recognizing the significant racial disparities in reproductive healthcare outcomes, particularly for Black and Indigenous communities, do you have a plan to address these disparities at the federal level? Please explain
"As an African American woman and physician providing care to the residence of the district and the region for over 30 years, I know firsthand the many barriers our communities face and have worked to reduce them. As a legislator I fight to make quality health care more affordable and accessible for everyone and to find and address disparities. In addition to the dozens of general and reproductive health care access and disparity related legislation I’ve supported, I introduced and passed legislation requiring insurance coverage of male sterilization and allowing minors to request and receive HIV prevention medication without parental consent. I am committed to taking the same clinical approach in Congress - listening to the complaints, collaborating with advocates, stakeholders, and other experts, evaluating the information, diagnosing the root causes, and prescribing and executing an effective treatment plan. As an experienced legislator, I appreciate that responding to a problem without having an understanding and addressing the causes may improve appearances temporarily but does little to solve the problem and is usually more costly over time. The obvious solutions are not always the right ones; and reaching the best solution usually requires collaboration, cooperation, a willingness to hear and address legitimate and conflicting stakeholder concerns, and time to assemble the resources to ensure long-term success. None of Congress’ 19 physicians are African American and only three are women. That is one reason why what I would bring is additive, not redundant, and why my candidacy is so important."
Acknowledging the intrinsic link between gender-affirming care and reproductive justice, do you have a plan to ensure that transgender and non-binary folks have equal access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare? Please explain
As noted, I have been a consistent legislative advocate and ally for the LGTBQA+ community beginning with my first legislative session when I sponsored and passed legislation creating parity in access to in vitro fertilization for same gender as for opposite gender married couples, ensuring that marriage equality in Maryland meant just that, and voted for legislation requiring that request for issuance of a new birth certificate reflecting the gender of trans and intersex persons be honored. I ‘ve strongly supported access to gender affirming care at all ages, provision of behavioral health and self-affirming support in schools and a school environment that does the same, prohibition on conversion therapy, and readily accessible HIV and other STD preventions and treatments for minors and adults.
Do you support any legal restrictions, including gestational age, on an individual’s ability to obtain abortion care from a licensed health care provider? Please explain
"I do not support any legal restrictions on abortion and, as a practicing physician and patient, believe all health care decisions should be between provider and patient and whomever else the patient may choose to include. The Dobbs decision and such subsequent lower court decisions as those restricting access to mifepristone and establishing legal personhood to embryos are chilling and more than assaults on reproductive rights, bodily autonomy, and family autonomy. As a doctor, I am particularly incensed by its great disrespect for science, for medicine, and for the very specific and intimate relationship that we share with each patient. The direction is clear; when we talk about reproductive rights, we're not just talking about abortion. We're talking about who gets to decide what types of birth control one will have legal access to. We're talking about who gets to decide not only what happens once one becomes pregnant, but who gets to decide who will be allowed to become pregnant and when, and who gets to decide what happens to the fetus prior to and after birth. This is chilling. Restoring and protecting reproductive rights and ensuring reproductive justice will be top priorities of mine.
Considering the proven positive impact comprehensive sex education has on students' decision-making and overall sexual health outcomes, do you have a plan to collaborate with education authorities to implement and standardize evidence-based comprehensive reproductive and sexual health programs? Please explain.
Fact-based sex education has been shown to reduce teen pregnancies and STDs and to allow students to make more informed decisions about their sexual health. I consider this issue to be a part of my focus on healthcare and would use my knowledge as a physician and training as a scientist to bring necessary insight of real-life situations and the consequences of ignoring data-based programs.
Sarah Elfreth
Have you actively advocated for reproductive justice issues through public statements, campaigns, community engagement, or in your previous public service roles? If yes, please give examples.
This session, I am sponsoring legislation to provide security grants to clinics that provide abortion healthcare. Previously, I cosponsored the constitutional amendment to enshrine reproductive freedom in Maryland’s constitution, which will appear on the ballot next this fall. I supported expanding access and funding for provider training. I have spoken publicly about my opposition to the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe and have made that a centerpiece of my campaign.
Have you collaborated with reproductive justice advocacy groups and organizations in the past to shape or support legislation, budget requests, or other policy initiatives? If yes, please give examples.
Yes. Please see above.
Recognizing the significant racial disparities in reproductive healthcare outcomes, particularly for Black and Indigenous communities, do you have a plan to address these disparities at the federal level? Please explain
In the Maryland Senate, I sponsored legislation to expand access to prenatal care, focusing on immigrants and women who wouldn’t otherwise have access to care. In Congress, I will continue to focus on health disparities.
Acknowledging the intrinsic link between gender-affirming care and reproductive justice, do you have a plan to ensure that transgender and non-binary folks have equal access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare? Please explain
In the Maryland senate, I have voted for these priorities and will continue to champion these issues on Capitol Hill.
Do you support any legal restrictions, including gestational age, on an individual’s ability to obtain abortion care from a licensed health care provider? Please explain
No.
Considering the proven positive impact comprehensive sex education has on students' decision-making and overall sexual health outcomes, do you have a plan to collaborate with education authorities to implement and standardize evidence-based comprehensive reproductive and sexual health programs? Please explain.
I strongly support comprehensive sex education and will collaborate with federal, state, and local officials in this area. During this campaign, I am working closely with candidates for the boards of education who share these values. These fights are critical from Capitol Hill to every school board meeting room in the country.
Juan Dominguez
Have you actively advocated for reproductive justice issues through public statements, campaigns, community engagement, or in your previous public service roles? If yes, please give examples.
"Yes, I support healthcare for all including for women's reproductive rights. At a December 2023 candidate forum when I was previously running in the Maryland Senate race, I expressed support for women's reproductive freedoms. I believe that healthcare is a human right – full stop. There are currently almost 30 million Americans with no access to healthcare, while millions of others are facing exorbitant premiums and expensive prescription drug costs. We need to have Medicare for All while centering our healthcare system around accessibility, affordability, and patient empowerment. America needs to take a holistic approach to healthcare. In Congress, I will fight for nationwide abortion access and reproductive justice, extending Medicare negotiated drug prices to all, and increasing access to mental health and substance use resources. Medical decisions should be made between a patient and their physician without interference from elected officials or economic barriers.
Have you collaborated with reproductive justice advocacy groups and organizations in the past to shape or support legislation, budget requests, or other policy initiatives? If yes, please give examples.
I have not yet but I would love to both in my campaign and once I am in office.
Recognizing the significant racial disparities in reproductive healthcare outcomes, particularly for Black and Indigenous communities, do you have a plan to address these disparities at the federal level? Please explain
As a first-generation Cuban American, I know that Black, Hispanic, and Indigenous pregnant people face significant racial disparities in reproductive healthcare outcomes. As a Congressperson, I would support legislation similar to Maryland's Healthy Babies Equity Act which provides healthcare and services to pregnant people regardless of immigration status.
Acknowledging the intrinsic link between gender-affirming care and reproductive justice, do you have a plan to ensure that transgender and non-binary folks have equal access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare? Please explain
I support comprehensive reproductive healthcare for all people including transgender and non-binary folks.
Do you support any legal restrictions, including gestational age, on an individual’s ability to obtain abortion care from a licensed health care provider? Please explain
I will fight for nationwide abortion access and reproductive justice full stop.
Considering the proven positive impact comprehensive sex education has on students' decision-making and overall sexual health outcomes, do you have a plan to collaborate with education authorities to implement and standardize evidence-based comprehensive reproductive and sexual health programs? Please explain.
Yes, I believe in evidence-based and evidence-informed policy including when it comes to sex education particularly when such programs have a positive impact on health outcomes.
Mark Chang
Have you actively advocated for reproductive justice issues through public statements, campaigns, community engagement, or in your previous public service roles? If yes, please give examples.
During my public service in the Maryland General Assembly, I've participated in numerous marches, press conferences and rallies to support reproductive rights and women's rights. On my Congressional website and social media platforms, I state my support for abortion rights. As a fiscal leader on the House Appropriations Committee, I've demanded that the previous Governor release the funding that the legislture dedicated to expanding abortion care access. As a cosponsor of HB 705 in the 2023 legislative session, I stand with the overwhelming majority of Marylanders who believe that abortion rights should be enshrined in the Maryland Constitution.
Have you collaborated with reproductive justice advocacy groups and organizations in the past to shape or support legislation, budget requests, or other policy initiatives? If yes, please give examples.
"As Vice-Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee in the Maryland House of Delegates, I worked with advocacy groups to fund $3.5 million in the Abortion Care Access Act that funded training for health practitioners to provide abortion services in Maryland. I worked with Governor Moore's Administration to have the funds allocated that were previously restricted from the previous Governor. In 2023, I was proud to be a cosponsor of HB 705 Declaration of Rights - Right to Reproductive Freedom. With the passage of the bill last year, Maryland voters will decide this year to enshrine the right to abortion in the Maryland Constitution. After the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, I have worked with advocates to protect reproductive freedom in Maryland.
Recognizing the significant racial disparities in reproductive healthcare outcomes, particularly for Black and Indigenous communities, do you have a plan to address these disparities at the federal level? Please explain
With a strong background of the appropriations process, as a Member of Congress, I will fight for funding to be directed to our underserved communities with regards to access to birth control and protect funding for Planned Parenthood. I am committed to protect reproductive rights and will work with the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services to reduce barriers in accessing birth control. As a child, my family did not have access to affordable healthcare which jeopardized my family's health needs. My formative life experiences shape my strong support for universal healthcare and fighting for the expansion of Medicaid and Medicare.
Acknowledging the intrinsic link between gender-affirming care and reproductive justice, do you have a plan to ensure that transgender and non-binary folks have equal access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare? Please explain
During the Maryland's Legislative Session last year, the state made steps to provide access for gender-affirming care and justice. I am proud to have voted for the legislation and stood with our transgender and non-binary communities for equality in healthcare. In Congress, I will work to ensure that Medicare and Medicaid are inclusive of transgender and non-binary adults and children.
Do you support any legal restrictions, including gestational age, on an individual’s ability to obtain abortion care from a licensed health care provider? Please explain
No, I do not support any restrictions on reproductive rights for anyone. I strongly believe in expanding the amount of licensed healthcare provides who can provide professional abortion care. With much pride, I stand on my record of appropriating an historic amount of funding for training and resources for abortion clinics.
Considering the proven positive impact comprehensive sex education has on students' decision-making and overall sexual health outcomes, do you have a plan to collaborate with education authorities to implement and standardize evidence-based comprehensive reproductive and sexual health programs? Please explain.
Yes, I believe that students should be well informed on sexual health that is based 2on science and facts. I have worked with local and state health education agencies on policies and funding for sex education programs. As a Member of Congress, I will work with the U.S. Department of Education on evidence-based comprehensive reproductive and sexual health programs across the nation.
Raymond Bly
Have you actively advocated for reproductive justice issues through public statements, campaigns, community engagement, or in your previous public service roles? If yes, please give examples.
Yes, there's many ways to stop a pregnancy besides abortion. If women really cared about their health, they would make the man wear a condom so they couldn't get any venereal diseases or pregnant.
Have you collaborated with reproductive justice advocacy groups and organizations in the past to shape or support legislation, budget requests, or other policy initiatives? If yes, please give examples.
I made statements about them but I haven't talked to any groups. I've never been invited because I'm Republican.
Recognizing the significant racial disparities in reproductive healthcare outcomes, particularly for Black and Indigenous communities, do you have a plan to address these disparities at the federal level? Please explain
Federal law restricting abortion to first term only.
Acknowledging the intrinsic link between gender-affirming care and reproductive justice, do you have a plan to ensure that transgender and non-binary folks have equal access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare? Please explain
They should be treated exactly equally, the same, as men and women.
Do you support any legal restrictions, including gestational age, on an individual’s ability to obtain abortion care from a licensed health care provider? Please explain
18 without parental consent. Children cannot drive, drink, and they cannot have a gun permit, until 18 or 21.
Considering the proven positive impact comprehensive sex education has on students' decision-making and overall sexual health outcomes, do you have a plan to collaborate with education authorities to implement and standardize evidence-based comprehensive reproductive and sexual health programs? Please explain.
I think schools should pay more attention to reading, writing, and arithmetic instead of social agendas that they want to push on young kids.
John Moorse
Have you actively advocated for reproductive justice issues through public statements, campaigns, community engagement, or in your previous public service roles? If yes, please give examples.
I graduated from Villanova University, which is a Catholic college. I was very concerned with the pro-life group's messaging and started a group called Villanovans for Choice. We met to discuss issues impacting women's health and the particular challenges women face when attending a Catholic college. For example, the local planned parenthood was 2 miles away and many students didn't have a car. They knew they could ask me to take them for access to contraception. When the college put a statute of a weeping virgin mary with a child to protest the right to a safe and legal abortion I personally met with the president of the university to protest this. I also organized a protest of Senator McCain when he was campaigning for president over his abortion policies.
Have you collaborated with reproductive justice advocacy groups and organizations in the past to shape or support legislation, budget requests, or other policy initiatives? If yes, please give examples.
I have been a longtime advocate for women’s reproductive rights and reproductive freedom. In starting Villanovans for choice at college I helped ensure that anyone who needed access to healthcare would be able to get to the planned parenthood by providing a network of trusted confidential drivers to the clinic. Following that I have used my role as a Union Lawyer for flight attendants to help them navigate a post-Dobbs world where they travel to all 50 states and advise them and advocate with airline management to ensure they have access to reproductive healthcare anywhere they work. This is an issue that I am passionate about and care about deeply. As a member of congress, I will be fighting for reproductive rights and freedom on day one, including codifying Roe and providing universal access to contraception.
Recognizing the significant racial disparities in reproductive healthcare outcomes, particularly for Black and Indigenous communities, do you have a plan to address these disparities at the federal level? Please explain
People of color and the poor are disproportionately impacted by restrictions on reproductive healthcare and are much more likely to face issues with maternal health. I support legislation put forth by then-Senator Kamala Harris, Senator Booker, and Senator Warren to expand medicaid eligibility, create incentives for hospital systems to address inequities in maternal health, and hold hospital systems accountable for failing to address inequities in maternal health.
Acknowledging the intrinsic link between gender-affirming care and reproductive justice, do you have a plan to ensure that transgender and non-binary folks have equal access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare? Please explain
Absolutely! Gender affirming care is health care and healthcare is a human right. I will fight to ensure that gender affirming heath care is covered by the public health option and support legislation that would require this life saving care to be covered by insurance. I will champion the expansion of healthcare for all that will include this vital coverage.
Do you support any legal restrictions, including gestational age, on an individual’s ability to obtain abortion care from a licensed health care provider? Please explain
No, that choice is a medical decision between a woman and her doctor.
Considering the proven positive impact comprehensive sex education has on students' decision-making and overall sexual health outcomes, do you have a plan to collaborate with education authorities to implement and standardize evidence-based comprehensive reproductive and sexual health programs? Please explain.
Yes, for example, I am very supportive of the Real Education and Access for Healthy Youth Act (REAHYA) to do away with harmful abstinence only sex education and ensure all children receive beneficial, and science-based sex education.
Don Quinn
Have you actively advocated for reproductive justice issues through public statements, campaigns, community engagement, or in your previous public service roles? If yes, please give examples.
I have never held public office, and while my statements (including those on my campaign website and at my launch event) are deeply supportive of reproductive justice, I struggle to consider them active advocacy for reproductive justice today.
Have you collaborated with reproductive justice advocacy groups and organizations in the past to shape or support legislation, budget requests, or other policy initiatives? If yes, please give examples.
No. Like many, I allowed myself to believe that reproductive justice would be protected by state legislators within our state and believed that we would work hard to immortalize reproductive freedom and justice into federal law before a Court overturned Roe v. Wade. This is a primary reason for my attempted entry into public life, but as it stands, my answer is no.
Recognizing the significant racial disparities in reproductive healthcare outcomes, particularly for Black and Indigenous communities, do you have a plan to address these disparities at the federal level? Please explain
This is a complex question to which I will attempt to give a brief answer. First, there are protections under 45 CFR § 92.2, under the Affordable Care Act which, in theory, work to prevent discrimination and should level the playing field for healthcare access and outcomes. 45 CFR § 92.2 is based on the protections enshrined in other U.S. Federal Laws like the 42 U.S. Code § 2000d (Civil Rights Act) and 29 U.S. Code § 794 (Disability Protections). However, these acts are tied to organizations that receive federal funding which creates loopholes and caveats allowing for discrimination that ultimately leads to unequal reproductive healthcare outcomes, including a 44% increase in maternal mortality rate among Hispanic women. For employment discrimination, we have an entire agency, the EEOC, and state agencies, who, while often ineffective, provide somewhat of a deterrence. On the other hand, there are no real federal agencies to protect people against other (non-employment forms of discrimination) and very little deterrence. First, we need to close some of the loopholes and make discrimination in healthcare a violation of federal law for any provider with 10 or more employees (or we can tie it to revenue); second, we need to strengthen existing law with definitions (what is discrimination?), penalties, and procedure to address discrimination in healthcare, modelled along the same idea as the EEOC/MCCR model but clearer language and a possible DOJ involvement; third, we need to address the disparities faced by women overall in healthcare situations and the discrimination many women feel based on their sex by making that part of the 1 and 2 above. We already have the framework for putting legal protections in place for women (specifically women of colour and indigenous communities) regarding healthcare provisions and, by extension, healthcare outcomes. What is missing is comprehensive legislation that strengthens those provisions, expands them to cover 21st-century challenges (including ones that have always existed but are now more visible), and puts in language that prevents courts from using the current vague language to erode the protections over time. Legislatively, a great deal can be done using incremental steps to strengthen, improve, and expand 45 CFR § 92.2.
Acknowledging the intrinsic link between gender-affirming care and reproductive justice, do you have a plan to ensure that transgender and non-binary folks have equal access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare? Please explain
The answer to this is similar to the one above with this expansion - Federal discrimination law needs to be expanded to specifically protect transgender and non-binary folks under the same general categories as race, religion, sex, national origin, and disability.
Do you support any legal restrictions, including gestational age, on an individual’s ability to obtain abortion care from a licensed health care provider? Please explain
I do not support government intervention in the private decisions of a woman concerning abortion for any reason, including "compelling state interest" and believe that the language passed by Vermont concerning abortion is the simplest way to guarantee a woman has an unfettered right to control her own healthcare and reproductive freedom.
Considering the proven positive impact comprehensive sex education has on students' decision-making and overall sexual health outcomes, do you have a plan to collaborate with education authorities to implement and standardize evidence-based comprehensive reproductive and sexual health programs? Please explain.
Sex education, including, specifically, contraception and pregnancy prevention, should be mandatory and required in schools with a curriculum developed by psychologists, sex education professionals, and teachers to have maximum impact on the students at multiple grade levels and for at least 2-3 years, using age-appropriate instruction, around the time school children start to reach puberty and sexual maturity. I also believe that birth control should be freely and unquestioningly available at all schools - including Plan B and such availability should be made known to students (who should also be taught how to properly use contraception in their standardized evidence-based reproductive and sexual health programs).
MD-06:
Laurie Anne Sayles
Have you actively advocated for reproductive justice issues through public statements, campaigns, community engagement, or in your previous public service roles? If yes, please give examples.
"In my public service roles as Vice President of the Montgomery County Young Democrats, a Gaithersburg City councilmember, and a Montgomery County Councilmember, I have championed reproductive justice issues by supporting legislation that expands access to reproductive healthcare services to eliminate discriminatory policies. I have publicly voiced my support for reproductive justice issues through speeches, press releases, and social media posts, emphasizing the importance of ensuring access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare. I have also led advocacy campaigns, collaborated with grassroots organizations, hosted town hall meetings, and engaged with constituents to promote policies that prioritize reproductive rights and health equity. Additionally, I have actively engaged with community organizations and healthcare providers to understand the unique needs and challenges marginalized populations face regarding reproductive healthcare access. https://www.mcmdnow.org/52women/ep25 (Invited Guest of MCNOW Podcast Panelist) https://www.mcmdnow.org/events/racial-justice-now Panelist https://bethesdamagazine.com/bethesda-beat/politics/abortion-rights-advocates-protest-strict-alabama-law/ Speaker Court rulings loom over July Fourth celebrations in the Washington region. Interview/Quoted https://www.marylandmatters.org/2023/08/10/political-notes-moco-councilmember-joins-congressional-race-a-tribute-to-cardin-with-oysters-and-endorsement-watch/ (Quoted during Launch interview)"
Have you collaborated with reproductive justice advocacy groups and organizations in the past to shape or support legislation, budget requests, or other policy initiatives? If yes, please give examples.
"Throughout my public service career as a teen mom, public health professional, community advocate, and elected official, I have collaborated with reproductive justice groups to improve access to reproductive healthcare and education. I have successfully funded budget requests and developed policy initiatives to enhance comprehensive sex education programs promoting reproductive health services in schools, in addition to providing free and low-cost birth control methods for low-income individuals. Ultimately, this has improved reproductive health outcomes in our community. https://mdlegagendaforwomen.org/ MLAW 2022 Sponsor I have previously worked closely with NARAL and Planned Parenthood to advance reproductive rights for women."
Recognizing the significant racial disparities in reproductive healthcare outcomes, particularly for Black and Indigenous communities, do you have a plan to address these disparities at the federal level? Please explain
As a public health professional and the Montgomery County Council Lead for Eliminating Disparities, I have used a racial equity lens to analyze data and improve reproductive healthcare outcomes. I have allocated funding for training culturally competent healthcare workers to serve in underserved areas. I also work with community organizations and leaders to create policies and programs that address systemic barriers to quality reproductive healthcare across our minority health initiatives. In Congress, I will leverage the resources available to build upon the work I have done at the local level to broaden coalitions that will ensure we address disparities across the country.
Acknowledging the intrinsic link between gender-affirming care and reproductive justice, do you have a plan to ensure that transgender and non-binary folks have equal access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare? Please explain
As a public health professional in Congress, I am committed to ensuring comprehensive reproductive healthcare for transgender and non-binary individuals by investing in research initiatives to understand their unique healthcare needs and advocate for policies that protect their right to access gender-affirming care and reproductive healthcare services. I will also allocate resources to train healthcare providers in culturally competent care, provide educational resources, facilitate support networks nationwide, and advocate for legal protections and insurance coverage for gender-affirming and reproductive healthcare.
Do you support any legal restrictions, including gestational age, on an individual’s ability to obtain abortion care from a licensed health care provider? Please explain
I oppose any legal restrictions, including gestational age limits, on an individual's ability to obtain abortion care from a licensed healthcare provider because such restrictions can have detrimental effects on individuals' health and well-being. Every person should have the right to make decisions about their own body and reproductive health without unnecessary governmental interference. Restrictive laws can disproportionately impact marginalized communities, limit access to safe and timely care, and force individuals into potentially unsafe situations. In Congress, I will uphold the right to access abortion care without unnecessary barriers to ensure bodily autonomy, reproductive freedom, and overall health equity for all individuals, regardless of gestational age.
Considering the proven positive impact comprehensive sex education has on students' decision-making and overall sexual health outcomes, do you have a plan to collaborate with education authorities to implement and standardize evidence-based comprehensive reproductive and sexual health programs? Please explain.
We need comprehensive sex education in all schools. As a member of Congress, I will advocate for funding evidence-based programs and encourage collaboration between clinics, healthcare providers, education authorities, public health agencies, community organizations, and advocacy groups to create culturally sensitive curricula. Further, I will develop mechanisms to monitor and evaluate the impact of programs on students' sexual health. Create a regulatory environment that ensures educators can access the support and professional development necessary to maintain national standards and guidelines for teaching a comprehensive sex education course. The ultimate goal is to empower students and educators with knowledge and skills to make informed decisions for positive sexual health outcomes.
Geoffrey Grammer
Have you actively advocated for reproductive justice issues through public statements, campaigns, community engagement, or in your previous public service roles? If yes, please give examples.
As a practicing physician, I strongly support women's reproductive rights and know that politicians should not interfere with decisions between patients and their providers. Our position on this issue is posted on our website at www.geoffreygrammer.com. In addition, my wife and I are hosting a district-wide Zoom call on March 13th at 7:00 p.m. EST (https://t.co/qj7Sk46HDs) to discuss our journey through IVF, given the recent Alabama Supreme Court ruling.
Have you collaborated with reproductive justice advocacy groups and organizations in the past to shape or support legislation, budget requests, or other policy initiatives? If yes, please give examples.
I am a citizen candidate who served in the U.S. Army for 25 years. I have completed the questionnaire and interviewed with Planned Parenthood and I have interviewed with Reproductive Freedom for All.
Recognizing the significant racial disparities in reproductive healthcare outcomes, particularly for Black and Indigenous communities, do you have a plan to address these disparities at the federal level? Please explain
I oppose restrictions to Title X funding and any reduction of Medicaid services. I will be a champion and co-sponsor federal legislation codifying a woman's right to reproductive health care and we need to prevent any coverage restriction by federally funded services.
Acknowledging the intrinsic link between gender-affirming care and reproductive justice, do you have a plan to ensure that transgender and non-binary folks have equal access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare? Please explain
I support legislation that protects the rights of the LGBTQ+ community, including the right to reproductive health care, foster parent services, and adoption.
Do you support any legal restrictions, including gestational age, on an individual’s ability to obtain abortion care from a licensed health care provider? Please explain
Maryland has informed consent laws for minors that balances age of consent with patient autonomy and protection. If a minor can demonstrate informed consent and notification of a parent or guardian could result in unwanted or adverse consequences, then notification should not be required. I think placing an arbitrary age removes clinical judgment form the equation and would not be appropriate.
Considering the proven positive impact comprehensive sex education has on students' decision-making and overall sexual health outcomes, do you have a plan to collaborate with education authorities to implement and standardize evidence-based comprehensive reproductive and sexual health programs? Please explain.
I support age-appropriate comprehensive sexual health education in our public schools as well readily available community resources.
Lesley Lopez
Have you actively advocated for reproductive justice issues through public statements, campaigns, community engagement, or in your previous public service roles? If yes, please give examples.
As President of Maryland’s Women’s Caucus, I worked with advocates including Reproductive Justice Maryland to advocate for bills to protect reproductive rights. Furthermore, outside of my work as a legislator, I have served on the board of NARAL ProChoice Maryland for several years.
Have you collaborated with reproductive justice advocacy groups and organizations in the past to shape or support legislation, budget requests, or other policy initiatives? If yes, please give examples.
Yes, I worked extensively with advocacy groups as President of the Women’s Caucus to champion our shared priorities and throughout my six legislative sessions. Additionally, I am working with advocates this session for my bill HB1412, which provides funding for reproductive care, including for protection for clinics targeted by anti-choice protests.
Recognizing the significant racial disparities in reproductive healthcare outcomes, particularly for Black and Indigenous communities, do you have a plan to address these disparities at the federal level? Please explain
Ensuring that every person has access to high-quality reproductive care services is incredibly important. I would support additional funding for community health services to address this disparity, as well as additional research into how best to provide this care and reduce disparities.
Acknowledging the intrinsic link between gender-affirming care and reproductive justice, do you have a plan to ensure that transgender and non-binary folks have equal access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare? Please explain
In the face of massive attacks on the LGBTQ+ community, it is more important than ever that we protect access to reproductive care for every person regardless of gender identity. Expanding access to affordable, accessible care, including gender-affirming care, is vital. I supported expanding the shield laws in last years reproductive rights bill package to include gender-affirming care, and I’m excited to be a cosponsor of Del. Moon’s bill this year. Over the years, I’ve also introduced the Trans Dignity in Detention Bill, that provides gender-affirming treatment for detained individuals.
Do you support any legal restrictions, including gestational age, on an individual’s ability to obtain abortion care from a licensed health care provider? Please explain
No, I do not support any limits to abortion care. That personal decision should be made by a patient and their doctor.
Considering the proven positive impact comprehensive sex education has on students' decision-making and overall sexual health outcomes, do you have a plan to collaborate with education authorities to implement and standardize evidence-based comprehensive reproductive and sexual health programs? Please explain.
Comprehensive sex education is vital in preparing young people to make informed decisions about their own sexual health. As Delegate, I voted against attempts on the floor to weaken sex education in Maryland. I will continue to advocate for access to these education services, even as extremists push back against it.
Ashwani Jain
Have you actively advocated for reproductive justice issues through public statements, campaigns, community engagement, or in your previous public service roles? If yes, please give examples.
"When running for Maryland Governor last year, I was the first candidate in the Democratic Primary to publish a Reproductive Rights platform - which called for enshrining abortion-care and gender-affirming therapy in our state constitution. My efforts were even recognized by Maryland Matters: ""Jain backs other progressive policies, like enshrining abortion access in the state constitution — a platform he announced in January 2021, months before House Speaker Adrienne A. Jones (D-Baltimore County) attempted to take up the effort during the 2022 legislative session."" https://www.marylandmatters.org/2022/05/31/gubernatorial-candidate-ashwani-jain-seeks-to-take-money-out-of-politics/ I was also the first candidate in the MD-06 Congressional race to have and release a “Women’s Rights” and “LGBTQ” rights platform on my website, from day one of my campaign launch in October of 2023. https://www.jainforcongress.com/issues"
Have you collaborated with reproductive justice advocacy groups and organizations in the past to shape or support legislation, budget requests, or other policy initiatives? If yes, please give examples.
"My campaign is 100% crowdsourced and volunteer-run. This means that every aspect of my campaign - including every policy proposal I have outlined and championed - was made in collaboration with residents who are directly impacted by the outcomes of these decisions. These include activists and leaders who are working on expanding opportunities for marginalized communities. We do not hire political consultants. We have also used data and publicly available resources provided by organizations like the NAACP, the ACLU, Planned Parenthood, Emily’s List, Center for Reproductive Rights and the National Organization for Women, among others.
Recognizing the significant racial disparities in reproductive healthcare outcomes, particularly for Black and Indigenous communities, do you have a plan to address these disparities at the federal level? Please explain
"I was the first candidate in the MD-06 Congressional race to release a comprehensive and detailed platform to address these increasing disparities. My plans - found here https://www.jainforcongress.com/issues - include: + Federally protect access to safe abortions and gender-affirming therapy While abortion rights and gender-affirming therapy were enshrined into the Maryland Constitution in 2020, millions of Americans around the country still do not have access to the care they need and deserve. We must fix this issue! That is why I also oppose proposals that require parental notification or consent for young people under age 18 to access abortion or contraception, as well as oppose government support for fake health centers (also known as “crisis pregnancy centers”), which mislead people facing unintended pregnancy. +Comprehensive Sex-Ed in public schools Students should learn about everything from abstinence, contraceptives, consent, and gender identity. Youth need developmentally appropriate information about their sexuality and how it relates to their bodies, community, culture, society, mental health, and relationships with family, peers, and romantic partners. Comprehensive sex-ed reinforces healthy and positive values about bodies, puberty, relationships, gender identity, intimacy, sex, and family life. +Free Menstrual Products in school restrooms This will contribute to ending period poverty - students who don't have access to menstrual products because they can't afford them are more likely to miss learning time than other kids. If toilet paper can be available and and free, so should menstrual products! +$26 minimum wage by 2030 This is an issue that comprehensively benefits and ties in to every major issue women face - from criminal justice to healthcare, housing to education. It will reduce debt, improve credit, and allow people to focus on things they care about. They will also be able to save, pay bills, take care of their family and take care of themselves. More details HERE: https://www.jainforcongress.com/issues/26-min-wage +Medicare for All This will not only save our economy more than $600 billion in administrative costs, but will significantly reduce expenses and costs for every American. More details HERE: https://www.jainforcongress.com/issues/medicare-for-all +Free Public College and Cancel Student Debt This will not only eliminate the student debt crisis, but it will also reduce wealth gaps, boost economic growth, increase consumer spending, make it easier for people to pay other bills (like their rent and mortgage) and improve our overall labor force. More details HERE: https://www.jainforcongress.com/issues/free-public-college-and-cancel-student-debt"
Acknowledging the intrinsic link between gender-affirming care and reproductive justice, do you have a plan to ensure that transgender and non-binary folks have equal access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare? Please explain
"You don’t need to fully understand the nuances of gender identity to know that each person knows who they are better than anyone else does. I’ve been an fighter for gender equality my whole life and I will continue the battle for equal and equitable protections in Congress. As the first candidate in this race to publish an actual LGBTQ+ Rights agenda back in October of 2023 ( found here: https://www.jainforcongress.com/issues/lgbtq-rights ), I believe we must: +Prohibit schools from banning pride flags or preventing students from playing on sport teams that are consistent with their gender identity School districts must be prohibited from banning pride flags and preventing students from joining sports teams that correspond to their gender identity. We can start by withholding federal funding for those schools that discriminate in these ways. During my 2021 campaign for Governor, Carroll County Public Schools decided to ban pride flags in schools. Students protested, and I was the only gubernatorial candidate to speak in solidarity with student protestors. Unfortunately, since the ban took effect, teachers are not permitted to ask students for their preferred pronouns or display pride flags or take similar actions to respect gender identities. In addition, counselors must notify parents of a student wishing to change a preferred name/pronouns. If a student hadn’t “come out” to their family yet, this would out them as a result. +Federally protect access to safe abortions and gender-affirming therapy While abortion rights and gender-affirming therapy were enshrined into the Maryland Constitution in 2020, millions of Americans around the country still do not have access to the care they need and deserve. We must fix this issue! According to The Trevor Project’s 2020 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health, 54% of young people who identified as transgender or nonbinary reported having seriously considered suicide in the last year, and 29% have made an attempt to end their lives. Numerous research studies have found that gender-affirming care leads to improved mental health. Gender-affirming care is highly individualized and focuses on the needs of each individual by including psychoeducation about gender and sexuality (appropriate to age and developmental level), parental and family support, social interventions, and gender-affirming medical interventions. +Comprehensive Sex-Ed in public schools Students should learn about everything from abstinence, contraceptives, consent, and gender identity. Youth need developmentally appropriate information about their sexuality and how it relates to their bodies, community, culture, society, mental health, and relationships with family, peers, and romantic partners. Comprehensive sex-ed reinforces healthy and positive values about bodies, puberty, relationships, gender identity, intimacy, sex, and family life. +Anti-discrimination in adoption and foster care Any foster care and adoption providers that use federal funds will be required to recruit and certify LGBTQIA couples as foster parents and remove any exemptions that would encourage discrimination. +Anti-discrimination in blood donation We must eliminate rules that exclude or restrict potential donors based on sexual orientation and gender. Instead, any reasonable distinctions in eligibility to donate should consider discrete sexual behaviors of all prospective donors, regardless of gender or sexual orientation, that pose a higher risk of contracting and transmitting HIV.
Do you support any legal restrictions, including gestational age, on an individual’s ability to obtain abortion care from a licensed health care provider? Please explain
No - individuals should have the autonomy to make decisions about their own bodies and pregnancies without government interference. Furthermore, restricting abortion access can disproportionately affect marginalized communities, including low-income individuals and people of color, who already face additional barriers to healthcare.
Considering the proven positive impact comprehensive sex education has on students' decision-making and overall sexual health outcomes, do you have a plan to collaborate with education authorities to implement and standardize evidence-based comprehensive reproductive and sexual health programs? Please explain.
Yes - as noted above - I believe we must have Comprehensive Sex-Ed in public schools. Students should learn about everything from abstinence, contraceptives, consent, and gender identity. Youth need developmentally appropriate information about their sexuality and how it relates to their bodies, community, culture, society, mental health, and relationships with family, peers, and romantic partners. Comprehensive sex-ed reinforces healthy and positive values about bodies, puberty, relationships, gender identity, intimacy, sex, and family life.
April McClain Delaney
Have you actively advocated for reproductive justice issues through public statements, campaigns, community engagement, or in your previous public service roles? If yes, please give examples.
"Reproductive rights are human rights. As a matter of justice and personal integrity, one should have control over what happens to and within their own body. I am the mother of four daughters, and it is unbelievable that they would grow up with fewer reproductive freedoms and rights than I had. Sadly, with the fall of Roe and attacks on reproductive freedom across the county, we must all become strong advocates in the fight for reproductive freedoms. As a member of Congress, I will fight for reproductive justice throughout my time in public service. I have long declared my support for reproductive freedom, and my intention to work tirelessly to reverse the Dobbs ruling in Congress. I have also marched and rallied for women’s rights, including access to abortion and contraceptives. Finally, I am proud that my husband consistently stood with NARAL and Planned Parenthood while in Congress, earning 100% ratings from them. Maryland needs a woman in our Congressional delegation, especially in this critical moment where everything from abortion to IVF is under attack."
Have you collaborated with reproductive justice advocacy groups and organizations in the past to shape or support legislation, budget requests, or other policy initiatives? If yes, please give examples.
"Yes, I have attended rallies in support of reproductive justice including the Women’s March, rallies for the Equal Rights Amendment, and rallies for reproductive rights on the steps of the Supreme Court. I have long served on boards of women’s organizations, including the esteemed International Center for Research on Women and the Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security, that advocate for and work towards expanding reproductive freedoms and maternal health not just domestically, but internationally as well. Most recently I served in the Biden Administration as the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Communications at Commerce, and while there I extensively engaged with the White House Gender Council. This engagement was part of the whole of government effort to expand gender protections and rights, and included my role as the Commerce Designee participating in an intergovernmental taskforce related to gender-based cyber targeting and online harassment. We worked to minimize online harassment that terrorizes and intimidates women, especially those seeking advice related to abortion and maternal healthcare; sexual violence; and targeted cyberbullying. I am eager to work closely with advocates for reproductive justice as a member of Congress."
Recognizing the significant racial disparities in reproductive healthcare outcomes, particularly for Black and Indigenous communities, do you have a plan to address these disparities at the federal level? Please explain
One of America’s greatest challenges is the severe disparities in healthcare outcomes for marginalized communities — especially around reproductive and maternal healthcare. I strongly support the Biden administration’s efforts to increase access to and coverage for over-the-counter contraceptives and would sponsor and support legislation to codify that into law to prevent Republican-appointed judges from rolling it back. I would also support legislation to repeal or significantly limit the Comstock Act to ensure it is not used as a weapon against equal access to reproductive healthcare in the future. Of course, part of the problem is severe underfunding of healthcare overall, and reproductive healthcare specifically, in Black and Indigenous communities, and I believe the federal government has a primary role to play in addressing these issues and ensuring there are adequate health care facilities accessible to all communities. Further, as articulated above, I would also seek to curb online gender-based harassment with the imposition of criminal and civil liabilities (as appropriate) for those who utilize online activity for hate speech, intimidation and the hindering of access to reproductive health care or gender-affirming care — especially in marginalized communities.
Acknowledging the intrinsic link between gender-affirming care and reproductive justice, do you have a plan to ensure that transgender and non-binary folks have equal access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare? Please explain
Transgender and non-binary Americans are under increasing attack for simply being who they are. I will be a strong advocate against initiatives to ban gender-affirming care, which saves lives. I am grateful that many Planned Parenthood clinics provide this care. I would advocate for funding and protection from hostile state governments for these clinics.
Do you support any legal restrictions, including gestational age, on an individual’s ability to obtain abortion care from a licensed health care provider? Please explain
Politicians should not dictate access to healthcare. Period. I believe reproductive decisions should be made by women with their doctors and loved ones, with no unnecessary restrictions from Washington or state capitals.
Considering the proven positive impact comprehensive sex education has on students' decision-making and overall sexual health outcomes, do you have a plan to collaborate with education authorities to implement and standardize evidence-based comprehensive reproductive and sexual health programs? Please explain.
While education is and should remain primarily a state issue, I believe that comprehensive sex education is important for our children’s development and support initiatives like the Real Education and Access for Healthy Youth Act that would incentivize proper sex education with federal funds. Part of these efforts should also seek to educate parents, families and communities regarding the rationale for and positive impact of sex and health education for our youth.
Adrian Petras
Have you actively advocated for reproductive justice issues through public statements, campaigns, community engagement, or in your previous public service roles? If yes, please give examples.
No , I never hold a public office before
Have you collaborated with reproductive justice advocacy groups and organizations in the past to shape or support legislation, budget requests, or other policy initiatives? If yes, please give examples.
No.
Recognizing the significant racial disparities in reproductive healthcare outcomes, particularly for Black and Indigenous communities, do you have a plan to address these disparities at the federal level? Please explain
Yes I do. I believe health care it’s a human right no matter who you are. I want to make sure that everyone has healthcare in this wonderful nation.
Acknowledging the intrinsic link between gender-affirming care and reproductive justice, do you have a plan to ensure that transgender and non-binary folks have equal access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare? Please explain
We need to change the entire industry , but I believe everyone should have health care no matter of sex, nationally, race or age
Do you support any legal restrictions, including gestational age, on an individual’s ability to obtain abortion care from a licensed health care provider? Please explain
No women or girl should be refused assistance.
Considering the proven positive impact comprehensive sex education has on students' decision-making and overall sexual health outcomes, do you have a plan to collaborate with education authorities to implement and standardize evidence-based comprehensive reproductive and sexual health programs? Please explain.
We need to educate people on sex. I support that 100%
US Senate
David Trone
Have you actively advocated for reproductive justice issues through public statements, campaigns, community engagement, or in your previous public service roles? If yes, please give examples.
"Throughout my career, I have been entirely committed to supporting abortion access, birth control, paid parental leave, gender-affirming care, and protection from discrimination. I have always been unequivocally pro-choice and have spent my time in Congress advocating for reproductive justice. Though abortion is legal in Maryland, abortion rights and reproductive services are under attack nationwide. I have never wavered in the fight to ensure abortion access is invariably protected in Maryland and have taken significant action beyond the halls of Congress. For over 20 years, I have been a strong supporter of the ACLU – which has been a leading voice on abortion, gender-affirming care, and reproductive justice in prisons for decades. And I am proud to have worked with the ACLU to found the Trone Center for Justice and Equality. I have done significant work within my community to preserve and protect the rights of my constituents. In my district, I am proud to have worked to expand access to abortion, supporting the establishment of a clinic in Cumberland to serve the abortion deserts in Western Maryland and West Virginia. I was fortunate enough to speak at the grand opening of the Women’s Health Center. I am proud to voice my support of the Maryland Right to Reproductive Freedom Amendment to the Maryland House of Delegates and the state Senate. Maryland voters should have the right to protect and make decisions that directly affect their ability to access reproductive care and abortion access. I believe the people of Maryland will vote to ensure we remain a state that unequivocally supports the fight for gender equality and reproductive freedom, and I vow to stand by them every step of the way. During my time in Congress, I have made countless public statements emphasizing my continued motivation to protect reproductive justice. Following the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision, I released a statement detailing my disappointment in the Supreme Court’s decision, as well as my concern for the future of reproductive health. Dobbs v. Jackson was not the beginning of the fight for reproductive justice, but it highlighted the importance of electing leaders who will prioritize it. In the Senate, I will step up and take action so that every person has the right to make healthcare decisions about their own body and future."
Have you collaborated with reproductive justice advocacy groups and organizations in the past to shape or support legislation, budget requests, or other policy initiatives? If yes, please give examples.
I have spent my three terms representing Maryland’s 6th congressional district, working with advocacy groups and organizations to ensure reproductive justice across the United States. I have supported and sponsored countless legislation to protect women’s healthcare and given more than $10 million to pro-choice candidates and causes over the last decade. I have consistently stood firm on my commitment to protecting abortion access and reproductive justice, which has earned me a 100% pro-choice voting record in Congress from Planned Parenthood and NARAL. In Congress, I am an original cosponsor of HR 12, the Women’s Health Protection Act, to create a federal right to abortion care. I’m an original cosponsor of the Right to Contraception Act, the Reproductive Health Patient Navigator Act of 2023, as well as H.J.Res. 25, removing the deadline for the ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment. I am also a member of the Black Maternal Health Caucus and Pro-Choice Caucus and original cosponsor of H.R. 3305, the Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act to provide funding to comprehensively address every driver of maternal mortality, morbidity, and disparities in the U.S. I’m proud of the work I have done in the House Appropriations Committee, which included $286 million for the health services covered by Title X, including family planning, in the FY23 omnibus spending bill, and I supported increased funding for Title X to address unmet family planning needs. In addition, I oppose the Hyde and Weldon amendments and have always voted against this language as a member of the Committee. I proudly joined an amicus brief to the Supreme Court opposing lower court rulings that would prohibit or restrict the sale of the abortion pill mifepristone. I have been a collaborator and partner with Planned Parenthood of Maryland – visiting Planned Parenthood of Frederick and helping them expand their outreach and education programs. I was also proud to participate in a public event in 2021 to discuss the Women's Health Protection Act, misconceptions about Planned Parenthood, Texas' abortion laws, and the impact of COVID-19. I am also proud to have submitted testimony to lend my support to critical legislation in Annapolis – including in support of the Abortion Care Access Act and the Access to Abortion Care and Health Insurance Act in 2023 and in support of the Reproductive Health Care Clinic Security Grant Program and opposition to the Ultrasound and Waiting Period in 2024. In the Senate, I will continue this fight by working to codify the right to abortion into law, end the Hyde Amendment, and will work to prevent the rollbacks of other vital pillars of reproductive freedom, such as the right to privacy granted by Griswold v. Connecticut.
Recognizing the significant racial disparities in reproductive healthcare outcomes, particularly for Black and Indigenous communities, do you have a plan to address these disparities at the federal level? Please explain
We must address the racial disparities in reproductive healthcare. Regardless of income or education level, Black women are nearly three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes compared to white women and are far more likely to experience life-threatening conditions. I am proud to have worked with local Maryland leaders and my colleagues in the Black Maternal Health Caucus to address these disparities. In the Senate, I will continue to work to break down systematic barriers and highlight the racial disparities that directly contribute to the lack of access to reproductive healthcare resources. More than 80% of pregnancy-related deaths are preventable. It is on our nation’s leaders to take urgent action to ensure access to high-quality reproductive care for everyone in this country. We need comprehensive federal action, which I am determined to work towards in the Senate. The only way to address this crisis is to invest in the future of Black mothers and children. Sixty-five percent of Black mothers in the U.S. rely on Medicaid for pregnancy and postpartum care, and nearly half of the maternal deaths happen within the first year postpartum. This is why we must expand postpartum Medicaid benefits to a year rather than the current 60 days required under federal law. In addition - the US is the only OECD member country without a national paid parental leave policy – the lack of which falls hardest on low-income families and families in areas with fewer treatment options, including rural families, those on tribal land, and those in urban deserts. In the Senate, I will fight to change this shameful state of affairs and pass a federal parental leave bill. Black and indigenous people have received racist medical treatment based on inaccurate and stereotypical beliefs about pain tolerance and traditions. Bias training should be taught as part of medical school and the AOBA & AMA should require states to have physician & community led review panels (as Maryland does) to interrogate the system and make changes as necessary to benefit patients. We must also make critical investments in social determinants of health that influence maternal health outcomes such as housing and transportation, provide funding to community-based organizations that are working to improve maternal health outcomes, diversify the perinatal workforce to ensure that every mom in America receives maternal health care from people they trust, support moms with maternal mental health conditions and substance use disorders, and improve maternal health care and support for incarcerated moms. I will work with Federal Bureau of Prisons officials to tackle the reproductive rights issues that are rampant within our prisons, including gender-affirming care, contraception access, and labor and delivery in prison. The right to reproductive healthcare must not only exist outside the walls of our prisons, and I believe that expanding access to incarcerated and justice-impacted individuals is an important way to provide not only reproductive justice but racial justice as well. The United States has a higher maternal mortality rate than any of the world's wealthiest countries. We must work across the aisle to address the maternal healthcare crisis and ensure racial disparities in reproductive healthcare are not ignored. In the Senate, I will work tirelessly to ensure every woman in this country deserves access to high-quality, affordable, and culturally competent care.
Acknowledging the intrinsic link between gender-affirming care and reproductive justice, do you have a plan to ensure that transgender and non-binary folks have equal access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare? Please explain
Every person in this country deserves the right to comprehensive reproductive healthcare. Transgender and non-binary people often may not seek out health care services out of fear of judgment, discrimination, and inequitable care. It is crucial that our public servants stand up for their right to bodily autonomy. In the Senate, I will work to ensure everyone has access to proper knowledge and education, as well as supportive and caring healthcare providers in their communities. I am a member of the LGBTQl+ Equality Caucus and co-sponsored the Equality Act, which would add sexual orientation and gender identity to federal civil rights law. My actions in Congress represent my values, and I will continue advocating for equality for transgender and non-binary people across the country in the Senate. We must invest to ensure this community has access to affordable, accessible, and caring reproductive healthcare services. We must diversify the reproductive healthcare workforce so every patient seeking reproductive healthcare feels safe and comfortable. As abortion rights are being targeted, now more than ever, we must work to ensure clinics have the supplies and resources to offer reproductive care to everyone. In the Senate, I will work tirelessly to implement clear and specific protections for some of our most vulnerable community members. We must elect leaders who will work to restore protections for transgender people, which were gutted by the Trump Administration. Implementing comprehensive policy addressing the disparities in the reproductive healthcare system is critical in protecting transgender and other LGBTQI+ people, as well as ensuring equal access to reproductive healthcare for all.
Do you support any legal restrictions, including gestational age, on an individual’s ability to obtain abortion care from a licensed health care provider? Please explain
"No. I believe that decisions about health should be left between an individual and their doctor and that no legislature should have the right to involve themselves in the process. History shows that banning abortion access does not stop abortions from happening, it only prevents safe abortions. People must have the decision to make their own decisions about their bodies and the right to an abortion must be codified into Federal law. Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization was a monumental step backward in gender equality and the right to privacy and choice. In the Senate, I will step up and take action so that every person has the right to make healthcare decisions about their own body and future. I will work tirelessly to prevent the rollbacks of other vital pillars of reproductive freedom, such as Griswold v. Connecticut, as well as ensure every American has the right to abortion and proper reproductive care."
Considering the proven positive impact comprehensive sex education has on students' decision-making and overall sexual health outcomes, do you have a plan to collaborate with education authorities to implement and standardize evidence-based comprehensive reproductive and sexual health programs? Please explain.
We need to expand the sex and reproductive health education that we provide in our schools. Because the majority of these programs focus solely on abstinence or sex and contraception, students don’t understand the symptoms of common conditions like endometriosis, PCOS, or fibroids. Reproductive and sex education in our schools should be as comprehensive as possible, including consent, biology, sexuality, and gender, and I will work in the Senate to make that a reality. We must empower our students to make healthy and informed decisions, which can only be accomplished through comprehensive and inclusive guidance and education. Sexual health programs across the US are fragmented and unequal. Young people have a right to information that is medically accurate, inclusive, and culturally appropriate to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health. In addition - I am working to ensure that community centers across my district have informational pamphlets from Planned Parenthood so that students have access to information outside of school as well. There are significant disparities in sexual education between gender, race, socioeconomic status, and sexual orientation. Our leaders must work to close this gap to ensure equality in sexual education. In the Senate, I will work with education authorities to require comprehensive, accurate, and equal sexual education across the country.
Angela Alsobrooks
Have you actively advocated for reproductive justice issues through public statements, campaigns, community engagement, or in your previous public service roles? If yes, please give examples.
Let’s be extremely clear about what’s at stake in our country right now — the very notion of freedom to control our bodies as women. Reproductive justice has and will continue to be a core value that guides my work. We worked tirelessly at the County level to support the State’s effort to ensure that women have access to reproductive health choices through our Title X funding including contraception and referrals to organizations like Planned Parenthood that provide abortion and adoption services. We have worked to increase access to health care, including reproductive care, to all Prince Georgians. We provided financial assistance to cover 22,552 doctor visits for uninsured residents through the Prince George’s County Health Assures Program. We are working to secure $19 million for the new medical pavilion in partnership with Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center for expansion of labor and delivery services. I list all of these accomplishments because I think they provide insight in how I approach reproductive justice — it’s an all out assault on the lack of access amongst underserved communities, lack of information on those with less education, and anti-choice political rhetoric meant to intimidate and control women. We must acknowledge the intersectionality of reproductive justice with racial justice, gender justice, LGBTQ+ justice, and economic justice. That’s why it’s not enough to codify Roe v. Wade. It’s about making sure every person in this country, regardless of income, race, orientation, etc. has access to the full spectrum of quality reproductive care. In my current Senate race, I’m proud to be endorsed by leading organizations who have been on the frontlines of the fight for reproductive justice — EMILYs List and Reproductive Freedom for All. They know my record and also my commitment to this right for real reproductive justice both in Maryland and frankly, across this entire country.
Have you collaborated with reproductive justice advocacy groups and organizations in the past to shape or support legislation, budget requests, or other policy initiatives? If yes, please give examples.
Helping me serve the people of Prince George’s County is with Diane Young, who sits on the State’s Maternal Mortality Workgroup, where she advocates for access to maternal health care for all communities, including underserved communities in Prince George’s. In her advocacy, she works to secure reproductive and sexual health care, including access to doulas. My administration has been laser-focused on addressing issues of reproductive justice and shaping budget decisions to address the inequities that are unfortunately present. As County Executive, I saw a deep need for better access to healthcare across our County and pushed to complete a Healthcare Needs Assessment. This assessment showed that we needed better access to maternal health opportunities in the County, and I then pushed to deliver tens of millions in funding from the State Legislature to ensure that we can fully fund the maternal health needs that we have in our County.
Recognizing the significant racial disparities in reproductive healthcare outcomes, particularly for Black and Indigenous communities, do you have a plan to address these disparities at the federal level? Please explain
"As the County Executive of Prince George’s County, I believe I know better than most the impact that the significant racial disparities have in reproductive healthcare outcomes. When I took office, I saw the critical need to better improve reproductive healthcare outcomes throughout our County, which is why I pushed for us to complete a Healthcare Needs Assessment to serve as the guide for how we can better improve health outcomes. As I expected, one of those areas unfortunately is maternal health. We know that a large percentage of our expecting mothers have to leave the county to receive maternal care and deliver their babies. This is unacceptable, which is why I took action in ensuring that residents of our County have the resources they need to be able to access the same medical care as other communities throughout the state. This needs assessment will continue to serve as a roadmap to help us partner with healthcare providers and deliver funding to secure needed facilities for our residents. Luminus Healthcare has recently been approved for a Certificate of Need that will include OB/GYN services. They are seeking $19 million to assist with this effort and, working with our state partners, I have been able to secure $10 million so far and I am confident we will be able to secure the remaining $9 million to help bring this project to completion. This issue is deeply personal to me. I know so many mothers who have had to leave our County to seek reproductive care. I have always believed that to best understand the issues, you must be close to its source. It is my lived experience as a mom, as a County Executive that has given me unique insight and will allow me to be a voice in the Senate to address these issues. There is currently only 1 black woman in the Senate (for now, until the next Congress) and unless we elect someone who has my lived experience, there won’t be any black women sitting at the table discussing these issues. Our voices are sorely missing from this discussion in Washington, which is unacceptable."
Acknowledging the intrinsic link between gender-affirming care and reproductive justice, do you have a plan to ensure that transgender and non-binary folks have equal access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare? Please explain
I believe that anyone, regardless of their gender identity and gender expression, deserves access to the full suite of reproductive health care. Full stop. In the Senate, I’ll take health insurance providers to task to ensure equity of coverage that’s affordable, thorough, and inclusive.
Do you support any legal restrictions, including gestational age, on an individual’s ability to obtain abortion care from a licensed health care provider? Please explain
I support legal access to abortion so that decisions can be made with the guidance of health care providers, and without fear or interference from politicians. Full stop. And in the Senate, I’ll fight for exactly that.
Considering the proven positive impact comprehensive sex education has on students' decision-making and overall sexual health outcomes, do you have a plan to collaborate with education authorities to implement and standardize evidence-based comprehensive reproductive and sexual health programs? Please explain.
I would work with experts and activists to ensure that our education authorities implement evidence-based reproductive and sexual health programs. Comprehensive is the key word. I believe every young person should not only have access to sex education but also to education that benefits them and who they are. Every young person deserves an education that sees them and values them. In the Senate, I’ll make sure to center voices in the community — parents, young people, LGBTQ+ people, educators, health care leaders, and more — and work in partnership with them to ensure stronger and more comprehensive reproductive and sexual health programs. I will also push back against Republican politicians that spew hatred towards our teachers in this space.
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