REPRO Rising Virginia Hosts Powerful Press Conference Urging Lt. Gov. Sears, Gov. Youngkin to Protect Contraception Access

DATE: February 13, 2025    
Media Contact: Michaela Parris, Communications Director    
Phone: (540) 892-6632    
Email: michaela@reprorisingva.org  

REPRO Rising Virginia Hosts Powerful Press Conference Urging 
Lt. Gov. Sears, Gov. Youngkin to Protect Contraception Access

RICHMOND, VA — Advocates, legislators, physicians, and storytellers came together today at the Virginia General Assembly to demand action on critical legislation that will protect access to contraception in the Commonwealth if passed. Hosted by REPRO Rising Virginia, the press conference shed light on the urgent need for legislators, as well as Governor Glenn Youngkin, to pass the Right to Contraception Act (SB1105) and the Contraceptive Equity Act (SB780 and HB2371). These bills ensure Virginians can access essential healthcare without barriers and secure the right to birth control.

The event featured remarks from bill patrons Delegate Candi Mundon King, Senator Jennifer Carroll Foy, and Senator Jennifer Boysko, as well as moving personal testimony from individuals impacted by barriers to contraception access. Tarina Keene, Executive Director of REPRO Rising Virginia, delivered opening remarks, emphasizing that Lt. Governor Sears and Governor Youngkin must choose whether to stand with Virginians or side with extremists seeking to restrict reproductive healthcare.

“Contraception is basic healthcare,” said Keene during the event. “Virginians overwhelmingly support access to birth control, and once these bills pass, Governor Youngkin has the opportunity to protect this essential freedom or further align himself with those attacking our rights.”

Key Highlights from the Press Conference:

Senator Jennifer Boysko, patron of the Constitutional Amendment for Reproductive Freedom, highlighted how the amendment works in tandem with the Contraceptive Equity Act and the Right to Contraception Act to create a comprehensive framework for reproductive healthcare. She stated, “This amendment ensures that every Virginian has the fundamental right to make personal healthcare decisions without interference. Together with these bills, we are addressing barriers and building a future where access to contraception and reproductive healthcare is protected for all.”

Senator Jennifer Carroll Foy, patron of the Contraceptive Equity Act (SB780), underscored the importance of ensuring all Virginians have access to contraception without financial or systemic barriers. She remarked, “This bill is about removing obstacles and expanding equity. No one’s ability to access care should depend on their financial situation.”

Delegate Candi Mundon King, patron of the House version of the Contraceptive Equity Act (HB2371), spoke about the importance of addressing inequities in reproductive healthcare access. She said, “This legislation is about breaking down barriers so everyone, regardless of income or background, has the freedom to access the care they need.”

Storytellers Share Impactful Testimonies

The press conference also featured powerful personal stories, including testimony from local college student Sarah Marghub, who shared the consequences of limited access to contraception, and Dr. Kelsey Salley, an endocrinologist, who highlighted the medical and health implications of ensuring equitable access to reproductive healthcare. Their testimonies underscored the real-world importance of passing these critical bills.

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