Administration of Joseph R. Biden, Jr., 2022

Roe v. Wade

January 22, 2022

The constitutional right established in *Roe *v. *Wade *nearly 50 years ago today is under assault as never before. It is a right we believe should be codified into law, and we pledge to defend it with every tool we possess. We are deeply committed to protecting access to health care, including reproductive health care, and to ensuring that this country is not pushed backwards on women's equality.

In recent years, we have seen efforts to restrict access to reproductive health care increase at an alarming rate. In Texas, Mississippi, and many other States around the country, access to reproductive health care is under attack. These State restrictions constrain the freedom of all women. And they are particularly devastating for those who have fewer options and fewer resources, such as those in underserved communities, including communities of color and many in rural areas.

The Biden-Harris administration strongly supports efforts to codify *Roe, *and we will continue to work with Congress on the Women's Health Protection Act. All people deserve access to reproductive health care regardless of their gender, income, race, ZIP Code, health insurance status, immigration status, disability, or sexual orientation. And the continued defense of this constitutional right is essential to our health, safety, and progress as a nation.

We must ensure that our daughters and granddaughters have the same fundamental rights that their mothers and grandmothers fought for and won on this day, 49 years ago, including leaders like the late Sarah Weddington, whose successful arguments before the Supreme Court led to the landmark *Roe *v. *Wade *decision in 1973.

At this pivotal moment, we recommit to strengthening access to critical reproductive health care, defending the constitutional right established by *Roe, *and protecting the freedom of all people to build their own future.

NOTE: The statement referred to H.R. 3755. This statement was released by the Office of the Press Secretary as a statement by the President and Vice President Kamala D. Harris.

Categories: Statements by the President : Roe v. Wade, 49th anniversary of U.S. Supreme Court decision.

Names: Harris, Kamala D.

Subjects: Civil rights : Women's rights and gender equality; Health and medical care : Abortion; Holidays and special observances : Roe v. Wade U.S. Supreme Court decision, 49th anniversary; Legislation, proposed : Women's Health Protection Act of 2021; White House Office : Vice President.

DCPD Number: DCPD202200032.

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