How States Can and Should Protect Abortion Rights and Access

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How States Can and Should Protect Abortion Rights and Access
5/24/2022 by Elisabeth Smith

For nearly 50 years, Roe v. Wade has guaranteed that abortion is legal throughout the U.S., but individual state policies have determined whether abortion care is in fact accessible or difficult, affordable or expensive, stigmatized or not. Looking ahead, individual state laws will be paramount to securing abortion rights and ensuring abortion access in the U.S. Many states already have constitutional provisions or statutes that will ensure abortion remains legal in those states regardless of the Supreme Court’s decision. (See where your state stands in this digital tool, “What If Roe Fell?”) But the need is urgent for more protections at the state level.

Policies supporting abortion rights and access can be pursued in myriad ways. Reform can originate from voters themselves via voter-initiated ballot initiatives or through the legislative process. Protections can be built into new statutes or constitutional amendments; medically unnecessary restrictions and bans can be repealed. To be clear: Every state has the power to enact laws and policies that protect their residents—as well as anyone who travels to their state to access abortion care. And an increasing number are doing just that.



If Roe v. Wade were weakened or overturned, abortion rights would be protected in less than half of the U.S. states and none of the U.S. territories. (The Center for Reproductive Rights)

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On a day of national demonstrations in response to a leaked Supreme Court draft showing a majority of justices favor overturning Roe v. Wade, New Yorkers protest in favor of abortion rights on May 14, 2022 in Brooklyn. In recent years, New York joined several other states in passing laws codifying the right to abortion. (Andrew Lichtenstein / Corbis via Getty Images)


Take Action

What proactive solutions could help people in your state? Reach out to your local and state elected officials and encourage them to introduce, support and advance legislation and policies that protect abortion; ensure an adequate number and mix of providers; respect the dignity and autonomy of young people; provide financial support through insurance mandates and other funding; and allow people to access medical care without harassment and intimidation.

Abortion rights should never depend on someone’s zip code. Each state must do its part to ensure legal and more equitable access to abortion care.

https://msmagazine.com/2022/05/24/state-abortion-rights/