In New Hampshire, women facing unexpected pregnancies often find help in places many people never see – local pregnancy centers serving communities across our state.
These centers provide more than medical services. They offer practical support, resources, and compassion during what can be one of the most difficult moments in a woman’s life. Services typically include free pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, counseling, prenatal and parenting education, and material assistance such as diapers, baby clothes, and supplies. For many, this support comes at a critical time.
I have seen firsthand the difference this care can make. Women facing what is an alarming and totally unexpected event feel frightened, alone, and even panicked. They don’t know what to do or where to turn. A call and visit to a pregnancy center can provide the calm and reassurance they need when they are lovingly welcomed into a friendly, non-judgmental space where they have time to learn what’s going on with their body and what all the available options and choices are, so important as they are about to make a life-altering decision.
Yet despite the role they play, pregnancy centers operate without clear legal protection, leaving uncertainty about their ability to continue serving without disruptions such as those experienced by centers in neighboring states and in a growing number of states throughout the country.
Signing House Bill 1416 into law is vitally important right now to keep them open and to protect their freedom of speech. The bill seeks to ensure that pregnancy centers can continue operating within their mission, preserving access to services women in New Hampshire rely on each year. In 2024 alone, these centers provided nearly $ 1.7 million in services and care delivered to women at no cost, paid for solely by generous supporter donations, not taxpayer dollars. Regardless of where one stands on broader political debates, there is undeniable value when women in need can receive support, information, and care at no cost and at a time when it is most needed.
Across the country, courts and lawmakers have increasingly been asked to address how pregnancy centers are regulated. The U.S. Supreme Court has affirmed that these organizations have First Amendment protections, while current action in several states reflects efforts to lessen those constitutional rights. Some lawmakers have also proposed additional measures aimed at clarifying and strengthening protection for these centers.
New Hampshire has an opportunity to provide clarity, ensuring that pregnancy centers can continue serving their communities and protect their First Amendment rights. At its core, this issue is about access to care and support. When someone faces an unexpected pregnancy, having a place to turn often makes a meaningful difference.
HB1416 has already passed in the House and, with support from the Governor, will pass in the Senate. Then, Governor Ayotte will have the opportunity to provide that clarity and stability by signing it into law. Doing so will help ensure that women across New Hampshire continue to have access to much-needed support and confidential, compassionate care at a critical moment in their lives.
Governor Ayotte needs to hear from you that this issue matters to all of us who want this valuable resource protected in our state. You can help by going to Change.org and signing the petition to urge the Governor to support this effort – your voice matters!
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