READOUT: Heinrich, Luján Host Discussion With Local Providers, Advocates On Preserving The Right To Abortion

LAS CRUCES, N.M. – Today, U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) hosted a discussion in Las Cruces with local health care providers and advocates to talk about current and future plans to provide abortion services to New Mexicans and others from nearby states. 

“Like the overwhelming majority of the American people, I believe a woman has a right to make her own health care decisions without the government getting between her and her medical providers. But as MAGA state legislatures across the country continue passing stricter abortion laws, we enter dangerous territory that could put some who seek an abortion behind bars. That’s why today’s conversation is critical – and why I’m proud that New Mexico continues to serve as a safe haven for those in need of abortion care. Republicans in the United States Senate continue to block debate on legislation to protect abortion rights, but they can’t block the will of the American people. I will continue fighting to pass legislation that will protect the constitutional rights of every woman across the nation, and ensure New Mexico has the resources we need to be a haven for those who need it,” said Heinrich.

“It is our sacred responsibility to protect a women’s right to choose and ensure doctors in every state can practice abortion services freely without fear of persecution, legal prosecution, or retribution,” said Luján. “I believe every woman deserves to be afforded the same rights their mothers and grandmothers once had. Together, we must continue leading the charge for women and all child-bearing people to make their own health care decisions.”

During the discussion, Senators Heinrich and Luján heard from Shannon Brewer, the executive director of the new Las Cruces Women’s Health Clinic. Ms. Brewer and owner Diane Derzis recently moved their clinic from Mississippi to Las Cruces after the U.S. Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade prompted the closure of abortion clinics in conservative states across America. The group also discussed the additional complexities involved with serving border communities.

Key attendees included:

• U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich and Ben Ray Luján
• Charlene Bencomo, Executive Director, Bold Futures
• Kat Sanchez, Policy Director, Bold Futures
• Shannon Brewer, Executive Director, Las Cruces Women’s Health Clinic