The amendment’s language specifically names the protection of rights related to pregnancy, pregnancy outcomes, and reproductive health care and autonomy. It states in part, “No person shall, because of race, color, nationality, national origin, age, disability, religion [or]religion or gender, including sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy outcomes and reproductive health care and autonomy, subject to any discrimination [his or her] their civil rights from any other person or from any company, corporation or institution, or from the State or any agency or subdivision of the State, in accordance with law.” The state Senate approved the amendment 49-14 on Friday, and the state Assembly approved it 98-43 that night. Democratic New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said during a news conference earlier Friday that enshrining abortion rights in the state constitution “will protect reproductive health in New York State for generations to come.” After the Legislature acted, Hotchul praised Democratic state leaders for “advancing this critical protection, building on our nation’s leading protections for abortion patients and providers.” “At a time of widespread polarization, New York is working to enshrine in our very Constitution that no matter who you love, where you come from, or how you choose to express yourself, you are welcome here and we will protect you,” he said. he said in a statement. Hochul called the Legislature into special session this week to begin the process of enshrining abortion rights as well as passing another bill restricting the concealed carry of guns in New York. Both came in response to recent US Supreme Court decisions. The Supreme Court in recent days overturned the 1973 Roe v. Wade and struck down a century-old state law that placed restrictions on carrying a concealed weapon outside the home. This story has been updated with additional details on Friday.
