New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill signed a bill on August 20, 2026, aimed at protecting access to reproductive and gender-affirming healthcare in the state. During the bill signing ceremony at a Planned Parenthood facility in Montclair, Sherrill expressed concerns about abortion access in the U.S., stating that it is easier to obtain an AR-15 firearm than to access an abortion. She noted that since the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, 13 states have enacted total abortion bans, and emphasized the need for New Jersey to safeguard reproductive freedoms.
The legislation prohibits New Jersey from extraditing individuals who may face criminal investigations in other states for receiving abortions or gender-affirming care. It passed both the New Jersey Senate and General Assembly in June, with votes of 25-15 in the Senate and 55-23 in the Assembly. The bill aims to secure protections for patients and providers involved in reproductive healthcare services.
Sherrill criticized the actions of Republican governors in other states regarding abortion legislation and affirmed New Jersey's commitment to providing sanctuary for individuals seeking care. She assured that the state would protect those who travel to New Jersey for legal healthcare services from investigations in their home states. Sherrill concluded by stating that no one should fear intimidation or violence for seeking healthcare, and that healthcare professionals should not fear punishment for providing legal care in New Jersey.