Governor says Massachusetts will protect abortion access and medication supplies

During a post-election press event, reporters asked the governor whether the state could remain a refuge for people seeking abortion care if federal policy changes. The governor said Massachusetts acted quickly to protect access: "I'm grateful to the legislature here for taking steps to protect women's access to abortion, to protect women's access to medication abortion, and to protect providers of abortion care as well." He added that he signed an executive order to ensure full access to needed health care, "including abortion care, in the state."

When pressed about medication supply specifically, the governor said plainly, "I also stockpiled mifepristone," and reiterated the administration's commitment to protecting people who need care in Massachusetts. He characterized the state's posture as one of active protection for reproductive health services and said the administration will use available tools to maintain access.

Reporters raised follow-up questions about potential federal bans; the governor stated simply "Always" when asked whether he would oppose such bans and pointed reporters to the attorney general for forthcoming comments on litigation and investigations where appropriate. He declined to comment on an unrelated question about whether Secretary Galvin should investigate ballot issues, calling that a matter for the secretary and the city.