Today, Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher’s (TX-07) bill to protect the right to travel for abortion, the Ensuring Women’s Right to Reproductive Freedom Act, H.R. 8297, passed the House of Representatives.  In addition to passing her bill, the House also voted to pass the Women’s Health Protection Act of 2022, H.R. 8296, which restores the right to abortion nationwide. 

“While lawmakers and others in several states, including my home state of Texas, are threatening to interfere with the constitutional right of Americans to travel freely and voluntarily within the United States, Congress is putting on notice anyone who, acting under color of state law, attempts to introduce laws that restrict that right, said Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher.  “Congress must take swift action to protect individuals affected by people trying to interfere with their right to travel.  I am grateful to Congresswoman Strickland and Congressman Raskin for joining me in leading this effort to protect abortion access.  Together, with our colleagues in the House of Representatives, we are working to protect the health and equality of all Americans.” 

Last week, Congresswoman Fletcher introduced H.R. 8297 with Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) and Congressman Jamie Raskin (MD-08).  The bill advanced in the House earlier this week after receiving overwhelming support with more than 180 co-sponsors and endorsements from 13 organizations. 

The Ensuring Women’s Right to Reproductive Freedom Act has received endorsements from NARAL Pro-Choice America, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), Planned Parenthood Federation of America, National Partnership for Women and Families, Center for Reproductive Rights, National Women's Law Center, Power to Decide, Physicians for Reproductive Health, Catholics for Choice, National Council of Jewish Women, Advocates for Youth, URGE: Unite for Reproductive & Gender Equity, and the Human Rights Campaign.