Anti-Abortion Advocates Withdraw Lawsuit After Vermont Law Changes
Montpelier, VT – National anti-abortion advocates and two local crisis pregnancy centers have withdrawn a federal lawsuit against Vermont concerning a law passed in 2023. This law made the centers subject to existing regulations on false and misleading advertising. The suit was dropped shortly after significant amendments were made to the original legislation, signed into law by Governor Phil Scott on May 13. This broader measure aims to enhance protections for reproductive and gender-affirming health care in the state.
The legal challenge was led by Alliance Defending Freedom, which argued the amendments were a response to its litigation. However, legislative leaders disputed this characterization, affirming that the changes were driven by conversations around inclusive language for all health care providers. The law previously contained specific references to crisis pregnancy centers, which many advocates believe mislead those considering abortion.
Sen. Ginny Lyons, chair of the Senate Health and Welfare Committee, emphasized that the intent was always to promote ethical standards across the healthcare sector, stating, “We want to ensure that anyone working in this arena adheres to high ethical standards.” Similarly, House Majority Leader Lori Houghton expressed disappointment that certain findings about crisis pregnancy centers were removed but maintained that the changes were not primarily influenced by the lawsuit.
Despite the suit’s withdrawal, the revised law continues to enforce consumer protection against misleading advertising, applicable to all health care entities in Vermont. Attorney General Charity Clark welcomed the lawsuit’s dismissal and expressed support for the recent changes, reinforcing the state’s commitment to strong consumer protection laws.
This legal development highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding reproductive health services, particularly as crisis pregnancy centers expand their roles in a post-Roe v. Wade landscape.
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