HB 1248 does not represent the voice of my constituents. I have withdrawn my name as a co-sponsor.
When I was first approached with the intent of this proposed Bill, I was told that it would offer lowering the existing limit of 6 months (24 weeks) without restrictions to 3.5 months (15weeks) without restrictions for pregnancy termination.
When the draft was released from Office of Legislative Services (OLS), I did not do my due diligence and neglected to review the proposal prior to agreeing to co-sponsor. This was my mistake and admittedly a grave one. I trusted but did not verify but this is not being offered as an excuse.
I had heard from multiple constituents that they felt a 15-week limit was more in line with what they would be comfortable supporting. Based on that and prior to tentatively agreeing to this Bill I researched all the pregnancy clinics in NH that offer pregnancy termination including Planned Parenthood. I found that medical abortions are only offered up to 10 to 11 weeks and aspiration, or dilatation procedures are offed between 13 to 15 weeks 6 days except for Planned Parenthood which offers aspiration procedures 14-16 weeks and dilatation procedures up to 21 weeks here in N.H.
Although I am pro-life, I have said since first announcing my run for Representative that I would not have a personal agenda but instead be your voice. That continues to be my pledge.
I am truly sorry that I potentially misrepresented your voice. It was not and is not my intention and therefore please accept my withdrawal as co-sponsor of HB 1248 proof of that.
I made a mistake that I take full responsibility for.
Respectfully,
Rep Kristine Perez