New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy has signed legislation launching a new online portal – the Reproductive Health Information Hub – which is accessible at nj.gov/reproductivehealth.
In a press release, the governor’s office said the portal will provide critical information on reproductive rights, access, and health care coverage across New Jersey.
“While access to reproductive health care is being limited and even eliminated in states throughout our country, New Jersey not only continues to protect this crucial freedom but is also expanding access to reproductive health care,” said Gov. Murphy. “New Jersey’s Reproductive Health Information Hub will serve as a one-stop shop for anyone seeking information on reproductive health care in our state – from access to the health care services they need to the rights we are working diligently to protect.”
In addition to providing information about an individual’s reproductive rights under state law, the site also includes links to resources to help individuals access health insurance, information on verified reproductive health care providers, and information on how to file a complaint if reproductive rights are violated. Providers are also able to access information about critical resources to help them serve patients.
“As we continue to protect the fundamental right to reproductive health care in our state, it is important that those seeking care know their rights and how to access these services. The launch of the new Reproductive Health Information Hub will offer those seeking care a much-needed resource,” said First Lady Tammy Murphy. “Reproductive health care providers can continue to administer services with the assurance that our administration will protect them. As a safe haven state, we will continue to support our reproductive health care facilities, providers, and those interested in joining the field, so they in turn can operate at the highest level to aid those seeking care.”
The legislation to establish the new website was sponsored by state Senators Nicholas Scutari and Nellie Pou, as well as Assemblywomen Shavonda Sumter, Verlina Reynolds-Jackson, and Mila Jasey.
“Access to information is a powerful thing,” said Jasey. “With this law, we are giving women and families in New Jersey the power to take their reproductive health into their own hands. I am proud that New Jersey continues to expand and improve the reproductive health services and resources available to our communities.”
Unsurprisingly, the website has been praised by civil rights advocates.
“A website dedicated to reproductive health care services will move our state and their residents into the 21st century,” said Loretta Winters, President of the Gloucester County NAACP, and the NAACP NJ State, Women in the NAACP (WIN) Chair. “Access and inclusion are necessary ingredients for success when reaching out to our marginalized communities. I am excited about all the educational possibilities that this website will offer, and I will use it as a resource.”
