State lawmakers announced a new push to expand abortion access Friday.

This includes increasing Medicaid payments to providers. They also want to shield doctors from interference at religiously-affiliated hospitals.

"Hostile policies right here in Connecticut have created an environment where health care providers are fearful or restricted from treating their patients. Any delay in time-sensitive care can be fatal," says state Rep. Aimee Berger Girvalo (D-Ridgefield).

Earlier this week, Senate Democrats announced they want to add abortion rights to the Connecticut Constitution. However, members of the Legislature's Reproductive Rights Caucus said Friday they don't believe that's necessary.