The Rhode Island General Assembly convenes later today for the first time in 2012 and most advocates and media outlets alike believe health reform will continue to be front and center. Go Local Providence cited health care reform as the #5 issue to watch in 2012.

We know that federal health care reform could help thousands of low-income Rhode Islanders get the family planning and reproductive health care they need – but not if some in the RI Legislature have it their way.  In 2011, despite the fact that no federal or state dollars are spent on abortions, the RI Senate voted to go beyond the federal health care reform restrictions on abortion in order to squeeze out even private insurance coverage of the procedure in Rhode Island.  While the measure never passed the RI House, and Governor Chafee established a health care exchange by executive order, Rhode Island Right to Life has sued to overturn that exchange. 

We know that, if our opponents have their way, even birth control would be banned from coverage under health reform.

2012 is going to be an exciting year and we need your support now.  Consider making your New Year’s Resolution to GET INVOLVED and ACT to promote health care reform and reproductive justice.  To get involved, sign up online or contact Paula Hodges, Public Policy & Advocacy Director for Rhode Island at paula.hodges@ppsne.org or 401.421.7820 x3145.