Jeff's Positions on Key Issues

Please read the information below to learn about Jeff Thielman’s positions on important issues that will be addressed by your next State Representative:

(use the links to the left to see different issues)

Choice

With a conservative majority on the United States Supreme Court, it is possible that Roe v. Wade will be overturned, and the issue of abortion rights will be sent back to the legislatures of each state. The next State Representative from the 23 rd Middlesex District must take a definitive position on this issue.

I support a woman's right to choose under the standards set by Roe v. Wade. The government should not interfere in the most deeply personal decisions in our lives.  We can reduce abortions in this country by creating a more supportive and caring society, not through legislation, litigation and politics.  My take from studying this issue carefully in law school was that the right to marital and family privacy previously recognized by the Supreme Court included a right to choose abortion.

I oppose the "Woman's Right to Know" bill in the legislature, which calls for a 24 hour waiting period.  This is always a difficult and painful decision for a woman.  She should be able to make this decision with her own counselors and guidance and without interference from judges and legislators.  

I support the current parental notification law in Massachusetts (a woman under 18 needs consent of a parent or judge), and I believe the current Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) requirement that providers inform women seeking abortions about the procedures available, their risks, and alternatives to abortion is sufficient.

Obviously, we should do all we can to reduce unintended pregnancy, including ensuring that women, especially those who are poor, have access to contraception.  I support the new emergency contraception law, so that women will have timely access to the "morning-after" pill. I am concerned about high levels of teen sexuality and support the teaching of abstinence and birth control to minors, but do not support “abstinence-only” programs.

I am opposed to late term abortions where there is no indication of a threat to the health, safety or life of the mother.

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