Gov. Whitmer signs directive ahead of Proposal 3 taking effect

LANSING, Mich. (WILX) - Wednesday, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed an executive directive that will implement constitutionally-guaranteed reproductive rights as Proposal 3 takes effect next week.

The signing comes after Michiganders turned out in record numbers to get Proposal 3 on the ballot.

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“In November, Michiganders of every background made history and sent a clear message: that a woman must be able to make her own healthcare decisions without the interference of politicians in Lansing,” said Gov. Whitmer. “Today, my administration is taking the first step to support and protect this fundamental right for every Michigander. I will continue to use every tool in my toolbox to defend Michiganders’ reproductive freedom, and work with anyone to build a thriving, competitive Michigan we can be proud to pass on to future generations.”

The directive will prepare departments and agencies to review the aspects of reproductive rights that fall within their jurisdiction. Those departments and agencies are directed to ensure that they provide the maximum protection possible for the fundamental right to reproductive freedom enshrined in the Michigan Constitution.

Representatives from ACLU Michigan, Michigan Voices, Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, reproductive health care providers, and women who participated in roundtable discussions the governor held on abortion access with women of all political backgrounds across the state joined the governor at the event, ahead of Proposal 3 taking effect on December 24.

Executive Directive No. 2022-13 can be read in full HERE.

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