Roe V. Wade Overturn A ‘Backward Decision’, Says Mercer Co. Executive

MERCER COUNTY, NJ — Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes called the Supreme Court's ruling to overturn Roe v. Wade was a ‘backward decision,’ but said the state will continue to protect the reproductive rights of women.

"Fifty years ago, the Supreme Court gave women the fundamental right to make their own reproductive health decisions. Today’s backward decision by the Court eliminates that right to bodily autonomy and privacy,” Hughes said in a statement.

The court's 6-3 decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization on Friday, was a thorough repudiation of the landmark 1973 Roe v. Wade decision and a subsequent case on fetal viability, Planned Parenthood v. Casey.

It also sets the stage for a patchwork of state laws across the country and a seismic shift in abortion rights. More: Roe V. Wade Overturned: Abortion Rights Left To States To Decide

Despite the Supreme Court decision, abortion still remains legal in New Jersey.

In January, New Jersey passed the Freedom of Reproductive Choice act, protecting the right to have an abortion in the state.

"New Jersey continues to offer reproductive health services and Governor Murphy has stated that he will take the necessary steps to protect the reproductive health care rights of women of New Jersey and of those who come here because they have lost that freedom in their home state,” Hughes said.

He said the Supreme Court’s decision could have consequences beyond abortion rights.

"Now is the time to act and make your voice heard. We must send a message to our leaders making clear that we expect them to protect a woman’s right to choose and ensure that no woman or girl is denied that right. This decision could have consequences beyond abortion rights,” Hughes said. “Let this moment in time energize us to go to the polls and vote for candidates who protect instead of erode the rights of all. "

Meanwhile, Bishop David M. O'Connell of the Diocese of Trenton welcomed the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe V. Wade. More: Diocese Of Trenton Welcomes SCOTUS Overturn Of Roe V. Wade

The ruling marks a watershed moment for the country's Catholic Church and the pro-life movement, which has sought the reversal since the decision was handed down in 1978.

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