First All-Trimester Abortion Clinic Planned for New Jersey Amid Political Tensions

Dr. Jessica Rubino adjusts instruments used for abortion procedures in 2017. Photo: Carolyn Van Houten/San Antonio Express-News

JERSEY CITY — New Jersey, often seen as a refuge for abortionists, currently has no providers offering abortions past 28 weeks — but that may soon change. Dr. Kristyn Brandi and Nurse Practitioner Catherine Obando plan to open Luminosas Wellness Collective, the state’s first all-trimester abortion clinic, in Hudson County by summer 2026. The nonprofit will rely on grants and donations, with nearly $20,000 already raised through grassroots fundraising.

Obando, the first nurse practitioner in New Jersey credentialed to perform abortions independently, was quoted by NJ.com as saying, “New Jerseyans shouldn’t have to leave their state to get the care that they need.” Currently, patients seeking later abortions must travel to Washington, D.C. or Maryland.

Luminosas also aims to train more providers in performing abortions. "Making sure we can train any provider who wants to provide this care is part of our model, so that way there’s a lot more of us," Brandi said.

The clinic will also offer other services including HIV support, OB-GYN care, and "gender-affirming" treatments.

The project, however, comes amid a heated gubernatorial race. Republican candidate Jack Ciattarelli, backed by President Donald Trump, has voiced support for abortion limits after 20 weeks. Democratic contender Mikie Sherrill supports codifying abortion rights in the state constitution.

While New Jersey law currently protects abortion access, pro-choice advocates warn that future leadership could threaten that reality. ““It’s really scary, especially as potential small business owners, but we know that this is critical care for our patients in our communities and we’ve been here for a long time," Brandi said. "... So, we’re going to do whatever we can to try to fight any type of ban that would impact people’s care.”

Previously, UOJ reported that Texas Gov. Greg Abbott signed the Woman and Child Protection Act (HB 7) into law, empowering citizens to sue entities illegally trafficking abortion pills like mifepristone and misoprostol into the state.

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