Letter To The Editor: Byrne Lies On Women's Reproductive Health

To the Editor

On June 19, 2019, Assembly member Kevin Byrne (94th District) rolled out an attack on the Reproductive Health Act (RHA), which was published in the Putnam County Press/Times.

It is clear that Byrne himself is confused about the RHA, and should face his own unwillingness and/or inability to look beyond his own narrow, seemingly deliberate ignorance before attempting to erroneously educate others. His statements are deliberately inflammatory, and push an anti-choice agenda intended to establish an “Us versus Them” mentality heading into the 2020 elections.

He laments the fact that the RHA removed the requirement abortion be performed on an in-patient basis after the 12th week of pregnancy. Medical treatment has advanced significantly since Roe was decided in 1973. In most instances, abortion is an out patient procedure, not a health condition that requires hospitalization. Mr. Byrne’s opposition reeks of economic discrimination and supports roadblocks placed between women and their access to healthcare.

The RHA removed the requirement that a 2nd physician be present when an abortion was performed after the 20th week. Doctors do not perform abortions by themselves. They partner with certified medical professionals such as nurse practitioners, physician’s assistants, and midwives. A 2nd physician is another bill to pay that benefits a hospital’s bottom line – not women. Another roadblock Byrne is apparently in favor of.

Byrne states the RHA no longer affords legal protections to fetuses born alive after an attempted abortion, and that it removed the requirement that physicians document life-sustaining efforts. Byrne’s statement is false. By law, if the fetus is viable, it is protected. The RHA does not change the standards of medical practice. Doctors have a moral and ethical obligation to do their job. Instead of trusting them, and women, Byrne would rather paint them as the enemy.

Elise-Ann Konstantin

Cortlandt Manor