Public to be heard on 'reproductive freedom'

While lawmakers prepare to debate a ban on abortion after six weeks, another abortion related fight is also brewing.

A public hearing is scheduled for Thursday on legislation that would give Nebraska voters the option to “enshrine the right to reproductive freedom in the state Constitution,” according to State Sen. Megan Hunt.

Human Rights Watch defines “reproductive rights” as including “prenatal services, safe childbirth, and access to contraception. They also include access to legal and safe abortion.”

Hunt, an Omaha Democrat, would need the backing of a majority of the Legislature’s 49 lawmakers to put the issue on the ballot in 2024.

In the meantime, 29 senators are already backing the six-week ban on abortion.