Vermont’s Republican governor signs law protecting abortion rights

Republican Vermont Gov. Phil Scott signed a bill protecting women’s access to abortion as other states have put restrictions on the procedure.

“Like many Vermonters, I have consistently supported a woman’s right to choose,” Scott said in a statement. “This legislation affirms what is already allowable in Vermont — protecting reproductive rights and ensuring those decisions remain between a woman and her health care provider. I know this issue can be polarizing, so I appreciate the respectful tone and civility from all sides throughout this discussion.”