Abortion in Wyoming

Abortion in Wyoming refers to the legal and social status of abortion in the state of Wyoming, United States. The legal landscape of abortion in Wyoming has evolved over the years, influenced by federal rulings, state legislation, and public opinion.

Legal Status

Abortion in Wyoming is legal, but subject to various restrictions. The state follows the federal guidelines established by the Roe v. Wade decision of 1973, which was later overturned by the Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization decision in 2022. Following the Dobbs decision, states have more authority to regulate abortion, leading to changes in Wyoming's legal framework.

State Legislation

Wyoming has enacted several laws that regulate abortion. These include mandatory counseling and waiting periods, parental consent for minors, and restrictions on public funding for abortion services. In recent years, there have been legislative efforts to further restrict abortion access, reflecting a national trend towards more restrictive abortion laws.

Clinic Availability

The number of abortion clinics in Wyoming has fluctuated over the years. As of the latest data, there are very few clinics providing abortion services in the state, which can pose significant barriers to access for women seeking these services. The image on the right illustrates the trend in the number of clinics over time.

Public Opinion

Public opinion on abortion in Wyoming is divided, with a significant portion of the population supporting more restrictive laws. However, there is also a strong advocacy presence for reproductive rights, emphasizing the importance of access to safe and legal abortion services.

Impact of Federal Decisions

Federal court decisions have played a crucial role in shaping abortion laws in Wyoming. The Planned Parenthood v. Casey decision in 1992 allowed states to impose certain restrictions as long as they did not place an "undue burden" on women seeking abortions. This has influenced Wyoming's approach to regulating abortion.

Also see

• Abortion in the United States
• Reproductive rights
• Women's health
• Planned Parenthood