By Lunell Haught, President, LWV of Washington 

Washington is in a unique position regarding reproductive choice compared to many other states. In order to reinforce how important this is, in May, LWVWA President Lunell Haught sent the following letter about reproductive choice to each Washington state senator and representative. The LWV uses privacy and health care positions to support reproductive choice. Lunell has received a few thank you notes from legislators.  

Family planning is difficult. Those who are parents know the challenges and uncertainties of bringing a new life into the world and realize that it affects not only the individual but the entire family constellation and society. The League of Women Voters of Washington supports universal access to a comprehensive, uniform, and affordable set of health services and an individual’s right to privacy in making their own reproductive choices. 

The League is grateful for the foresight that Washington voters showed in securing the right to terminate a pregnancy (1973). Adding to this is the legislative work done to enact RCW 9.02.110 (a woman’s right to choose). We appreciate your recognizing that every individual has the fundamental right to choose or refuse birth control and that every pregnant person has the fundamental right to choose or refuse to terminate a pregnancy (except as specifically limited). 

Those of us who lived through the days when there was no access to reproductive choices know firsthand how lives can be upturned and ended without access to reproductive care. We are thankful to live in a state that recognizes this is a family, not a government, decision. Thank you for your service to the people of Washington in ensuring the rights of women and their families to make their own decisions about important family matters.