Release Date: September 28, 2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Ana Sandoval, PPAC Communications, 916.446.5247

Initiative dangerous to women's health

Statement by Kathy Kneer, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Affiliates of California, in response to the filing today of a so-called "personhood" initiative:

"The initiative filed today is dangerous to women's health. For the fourth time in five years, those opposed to a woman's right to privacy are at it again, but this one goes too far.  There are numerous dangerous consequences that will result from this proposal: it would cause women who have miscarriages to be investigated; it will outlaw certain types of birth control; it could stop stem cell research; and because, incredibly, the proponents make no exception for an abortion even in the case of rape, incest or if the life and health of the woman is at risk – women in California may die.

Planned Parenthood, along with doctors, nurses, and counselors are pledged to fight this proposal – as we have done the last three. We are confident, that California's voters, once they realize the dangers of this plan will once again vote no."

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Planned Parenthood Affiliates of California (PPAC) is the state public policy office representing California's nine separately incorporated Planned Parenthood affiliates. Through advocacy and electoral action, PPAC promotes sound public policy in areas of reproductive health care, family planning and comprehensive sex education.