This petition originates from a deeply personal place, firmly rooted in the belief of the fight for women’s rights. Recent events have shed light on our society's pressing issue of women's rights and the disconnect between law makers and what women value - personal liberty. Senate Bill 51 was originally introduced by Senator Jay Taylor, and then quickly withdrew after public backlash. Less than 24 hours later it was reintroduced by a group of delegates, despite the bills unpopularity with the public that they are supposed to represent. The bill specifically prevents women from obtaining an abortion in cases of rape or incest, and removes the requirement for medical personnel to report the incident to the authorities. This is not just an invasion into women's autonomy, liberty, and pursuit of happiness; it is an unconstitutional act. This battle is just a sliver of the wider issue where our legislature has repeatedly used their religious beliefs to guide their decisions which influence the laws of our state and everyone that lives in the state of West Virginia. 

Therefore, we are calling for the permanent withdrawal of SB51, laws in West Virginia to prohibit the introduction, passage, or execution of laws based on religious beliefs. The church and state need to remain separated to ensure everyone's beliefs and lifestyles are respected. The fight for a diverse democracy is more than ever essential in a country as multicultural as ours.

Moreover, we demand our government to emulate Ohio's system of allowing popular votes on critical issues like abortion rights, gay marriages, marijuana legalization, and certain criminal punishments. The will of the people should guide the laws of the land instead of a select few powerful individuals with money to buy politicians whose decisions will affect us all. This method ensures democracy at play, and individual liberty for all its citizens.

It is time for our elected officials to recognize the will of the people, stand up against oppression, and enact laws for greater representation of a government that is “By the people, For the people”. Sign this petition today. Intend for change. Let’s remind our government that it is the people they are civil servants and not bought and paid for overlords.