It is very important that the Board of Health completely repeal and rewrite the current regulations regarding women's health centers.  Preserving access to comprehensive reproductive care is essential to maintaining women's health in Virginia.  As a Virginia woman, I believe that protecting the health and health care of women all over this state is a priority and not something that should be used in political strategy.

While some regulations are in place to protect the health of Virginians, these regulations appear to do much the opposite.  These are poltically motivated restrictions that are not necessary for the health of patients.  In reality, these "health" regulations will endanger women's health and safety.  It is my belief that these regulations were written with politics in mind, not medicine.  It is sad to realize that my health as a woman could be considered a political pawn, rather than a issue of medicine and personal choice.

I know that I do not stand alone in my opposition to these regulations.  I recognize that doctors, health care professionals, and a majority of Virginians also agree with my stance on this issue.  The fact that our political system would go against the best advice and knowledge of individuals far more able to make these medical decisions proves to me that this decision is not medical, but indeed political after all.

Finally, if the issue can not be won due to mine or many other Virginians' opposition, then please keep in mind those who it will affect most directly.  Tens of thousands of Virginia women and families will lose access to critical medical care if these regulations are not repealed and rewritten.  It is terrifying to think about where these Virginians may turn in their time of need, when their state has failed them.  If this regulation does move forward in its current state, its impact will be felt by all of these thousands of women and their families, but also all of their close friends and peers who will stand with them in disgust for what has become of our state's position on women's health.  While you may be able to ignore the voices of some of these women, all of their supporters will certainly give you reason to listen and remember what you did in order to pass these harmful, political regulations.