How federal laws set the baseline for women’s health, safety, and access
Federal laws play a powerful role in shaping women’s rights in the United States. Even when enforcement and impact
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Arizona
Arizona is a state where recent elections have led to a major expansion of women’s rights, and future elections
The criminalization of abortion care continues - in ND, SC, and MO
As lawmakers and courts revisit abortion restrictions across the country, more states are treating reproductive health care —including both pregnancy
Nevada
In Nevada, the 2026 general election is especially significant because a constitutional amendment protecting abortion rights must be approved a
Workplace benefits delayed in Maryland until 2028
In 2022, Maryland enacted a statewide Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) program designed to provide workers with paid
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is a state where elections can meaningfully shape women’s rights in a relatively short period of time. Like
Wisconsin
Wisconsin is one of the states where elections can meaningfully shape women’s rights in a relatively short period of
North Carolina
North Carolina is one of the states where elections can quickly reshape women’s rights. North Carolina’s policy shifts
Virginia
Virginia currently maintains stronger protections for women’s rights than many states in the region, particularly around reproductive care and
Federal investigation tests Oregon’s trans-inclusive school policies
In 2025, federal officials opened an investigation into Oregon school districts’ policies allowing transgender students to participate in school sports
Gun-safety law leaves gaps in Virginia’s safety landscape
Virginia ranks among the stronger states nationally on gun safety, with laws designed to restrict firearm access during high-risk situations
New lawsuit says Virginia is disenfranchising college voters - especially at HBCUs
Civil rights groups filed a federal lawsuit in November 2025 alleging that Virginia’s voter-registration practices unlawfully block college students
Oregon protects abortion access after federal funding disruptions
Oregon law continues to protect abortion access. As a result, the state has become a regional destination for care as