Over-represented
Severely under-represented
Close to equal representation
No representation
Under-represented
100%
50%
0
NaN% Women
(on average)
NaN% Women
(on average)
Abortion policy is one of the clearest areas where gender representation matters.
States with higher percentages of women legislators are connected to better policies that protect abortion care.
In contrast, states with the lowest percentages of women legislators have the most restricted access to abortion.
Gun Safety — Research shows women lawmakers are more likely to introduce and support legislation that prioritizes community safety over gun industry profits.
In states where women make up a larger share of the legislature, we see stronger gun safety measures: universal background checks, safe storage laws, and restrictions on firearms for domestic abusers. Women bring lived experience and community-rooted priorities that shape smarter public safety policy.
In contrast, states with the fewest women legislators are more likely to have weaker gun safety protections.
Voting Rights — Equitable access to the ballot is foundational to a healthy democracy.
States with more women legislators are more likely to protect voting rights and resist restrictive voter ID laws that disproportionately impact women, people of color, and low-income voters. Women in office often lead efforts to expand registration access, protect early voting, and modernize election systems. When more women are in power, more people can participate in democracy.
In contrast, states with the lowest percentage of women legislators are most likely to restrict ballot access through stringent voter ID requirements.
