Sen. Hicks joins other state legislators at White House to protect reproductive rights

OKLAHOMA CITY – Ahead of the one year anniversary of the Dobbs decision overturning Roe v. Wade, Sen. Carri Hicks joined dozens of state legislators from around the nation last week to attend the State Legislative Convening on Reproductive Rights at the White House. The two-day event highlighted state-level attacks on reproductive rights and efforts to safeguard access to reproductive healthcare.

“I'm continuing to work with legislators in red states who refuse to give up on this life or death issue,” Hicks said. “I’m committed to protecting individual freedoms on when, if, and how to become parents. It is an incredibly personal decision and, therefore, the government should not be interfering with individual liberties.”

The Oklahoma City Democrat attended the Wednesday event, along with 48 other members from 25 conservative states that are attempting to roll back reproductive rights. Panel discussions included lessons from North Carolina, Nebraska and South Carolina on their recent legislative battles and tactics to fight back; ideas for policies to continue pushing for full reproductive health care access; and about Ohio’s path to a reproductive freedom ballot initiative in August. Hicks shared about Oklahoma’s numerous abortion bans characterized by inconsistent, contradictory language that has left medical professionals confused and many refusing to provide necessary medical care to women in dangerous situations.

“It’s comforting to know that we in Oklahoma are not alone in our fight to protect the rights and health of women,” Hicks said. “I’m grateful I was invited to attend this special event and am anxious to share the insight and tactics I learned with our caucus, so we can continue expanding our strategy and policy agenda on this important matter for Oklahoma women and families.”

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For more information, contact:  Sen. Hicks: (405) 521-5543 or Carri.Hicks@oksenate.gov