You've been a powerful voice to women in your state (and across the nation) interpreting the Tennessee Trigger Ban. Can you tell us more about the Ban and what that means for women?
Unfortunately, the Tennessee Trigger Ban on Abortion does not contain any exception in the law. This means that every time a doctor terminates a pregnancy - even when it’s necessary as a form of life saving medical care - they are committing a crime. While our law does have an affirmative defense, doctors will first have to be arrested and charged before raising the defense at trial. This situation is terrifying for physicians and puts them in an untenable position where providing medical care subjects them to a potential loss of liberty. It’s even worse for their patients who are left wondering what may happen to them if they have a complication and need a termination, but can’t find a doctor to perform the procedure out of fear of being prosecuted.
It is a time of chaos and genuine terror in Tennessee, which has been a devastating thing to watch. As the proud aunt of identical twin boys - who are the loves of my life and the sweetest angels on the planet - I know how scary it can be as a family member on the sidelines hoping all goes well. My sister was so lucky to have incredible medical care. I hope that by changing this law and supporting physicians while we work through it, they will stay here in Tennessee and continue to provide amazing care for the women in my state.
I truly do believe that by raising awareness of the law and how it will function in practice, we can convince our legislature to make changes, allowing for exceptions in cases of medical emergency and for when women have been the victims of rape, incest and emotional abuse and trauma. It’s not perfect, but it’s a start.
I know it will be a long road and a tough fight, but it’s one worth fighting.