Abortion law in the United States by state

Overview of abortion laws in the United States by state

Abortion law in the United States by state refers to the legal framework governing the availability and regulation of abortion services across the different states in the United States. The legal landscape of abortion in the U.S. is complex and varies significantly from state to state, influenced by federal rulings, state legislation, and local policies.

Overview

Abortion laws in the United States are shaped by both federal and state legislation. The landmark Roe v. Wade decision in 1973 by the U.S. Supreme Court established a woman's legal right to an abortion under the constitutional right to privacy. However, states have the authority to regulate abortions, leading to a diverse array of laws across the country.

State Laws

Pre-1973 Abortion Laws

Map of US abortion laws pre-1973

Before the Roe v. Wade decision, abortion laws varied widely across the United States. Some states had liberalized abortion laws, while others maintained strict prohibitions. The map illustrates the legal status of abortion in each state prior to 1973.

Minor Abortion Laws

Map of US minor abortion laws

Many states have specific laws regarding minors seeking abortions. These laws often require parental consent or notification, although judicial bypass options may be available. The map shows the different requirements for minors across the states.

Mandatory Waiting Periods

Map of US mandatory waiting period laws

Several states have enacted mandatory waiting periods, requiring a woman to wait a specified amount of time between receiving counseling and obtaining an abortion. These waiting periods can range from 24 to 72 hours.

Feticide Laws

Map of US feticide laws

Feticide laws are designed to protect unborn children from harm. These laws vary by state and can impact the legal considerations surrounding abortion, particularly in cases of violence against pregnant women.

Pre-Abortion Counseling

Map of US pre-abortion counseling law

Many states require women to receive counseling before an abortion can be performed. This counseling often includes information about fetal development, alternatives to abortion, and potential risks associated with the procedure.

Mandatory Ultrasound Laws

Map of US mandatory ultrasound laws

Some states mandate that an ultrasound be performed before an abortion. These laws may require the provider to offer the woman the opportunity to view the ultrasound image and hear the fetal heartbeat.

Related Pages

• Roe v. Wade
• Planned Parenthood v. Casey
• Abortion in the United States
• Reproductive rights