GLEN ROCK, N.J. (KYW Newsradio) — New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy signed legislation and made several announcements on Tuesday about safeguarding access to reproductive healthcare.
The new law, signed by Murphy, launches a new website that has essential information for women to do research and make personal healthcare decisions.
“This hub will provide a comprehensive overview of the reproductive rights that you are entitled to here in the Garden State,” said Murphy, adding the hub will “help connect you with healthcare providers throughout the state, whether you need an abortion, a cancer screening, birth control or any other form of reproductive healthcare.”
In addition to the new site, Murphy announced millions of dollars in funding for several healthcare-related initiatives, including money for Planned Parenthood and other abortion providers to make needed renovations and buy medical equipment.
An additional $5 million will go toward improving security at those facilities, through the Department of Homeland Security. The state is also spending $5 million to help grow the reproductive healthcare workforce.
“With it,” said Murphy, “our goal is to recruit and train a new generation of reproductive healthcare professionals in the years to come.”
The governor said that objective is key, as demand for abortions increases following the overturning of Roe v. Wade, ending the national right to abortion care.
New Jersey also committed $10 million to increase Medicaid payments to improve access for low-income families, “because nobody should be denied essential healthcare because it costs too much money,” said Murphy.