Jay Jones outlines plans to protect reproductive rights as attorney general

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Jay Jones, the Democratic nominee for attorney general, is outlining how he would protect reproductive rights in Virginia if elected.

Jones told 8News that the plan starts with creating a reproductive rights hotline with the attorney general’s office -- allowing women to get information about their reproductive rights in Virginia.

“This hotline is an easy way for us to connect with the community, for us to let people know that we are there, and that we are able to tackle any challenges that we see and support them in their times of need,” Jones told 8News.

Jones added that, as attorney general, he plans to continue advocating for the passage of a proposed constitutional amendment to enshrine abortion rights in the Virginia Constitution. 

“We want to make sure that women across Virginia know that we have their back, that they have the access to the healthcare that they need, and that we continue to demonstrate in Virginia that we’re a leader in the healthcare space,” he said.

That amendment drew criticism from Republicans in the past, who argue it would supersede Virginia’s current law requiring providers to get parental consent before allowing a minor to receive an abortion.

8News asked Jones if he shared Republicans' concerns. 

“I think that it’s been debated in the legislature, voted upon. My sincere hope is that we get a Democratic majority in the House of Delegates to pass this again," he said. "This will just enshrine protections in our constitution that women in Virginia deserve, and I look forward to defending this as the next Attorney General of Virginia.” 

8News reached out to Attorney General Jason Miyares’ campaign to get a response to Jones’ plan, but they declined to comment.