On March 11, the Colorado House Health and Human Services committee heard testimonies on HB25-1252 “Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment Regulation of Abortion Clinics.” This bill was not about the morality or legality of abortion, it is to ensure public health and safety. Amendment 79 awarded abortion providers unprecedented constitutional protection: Abortion any time, for any reason, without regulation, inspection, oversight or accountability.

Abortion is the only medical/surgical procedure to have constitutional protection. Not cardiovascular interventions, cancer screening or treatment, immunizations or any other life-affirming care. Second and third trimester abortions pose higher risks of morbidity and mortality for women than first trimester abortions. According to the CDC, the risk of mortality involving second and third trimester abortions increases by 38% for each additional week of gestation after 8 weeks.

Recent media outlets (New York Times and NPR) have brought to light reports of poor clinic conditions, complications post abortion and understaffing in some Planned Parenthood clinics. We know women are being harmed.

On Tuesday, we heard personal testimony of an 18 year old who died after an abortion at the Planned Parenthood clinic in Fort Collins. Women seeking abortion deserve the highest standards of care. It is one thing for legislators and/or Planned Parenthood to say care is excellent. If true, why resist transparency and accountability?

Wendy Smith

Colorado Springs