Judges, state lawmakers, and voters are determining the future of abortion in the U.S. following a significant Supreme Court decision in 2022 that overturned Roe v. Wade.
The ruling on June 24, 2022, in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization triggered legislative responses, protests, and numerous lawsuits, placing abortion at the center of political debates nationwide.
Currently, abortion is prohibited throughout pregnancy with few exceptions in 14 states controlled by Republicans. In three other states, it’s banned after approximately six weeks, often before many realize they are pregnant. Most states led by Democrats have enacted measures to safeguard abortion rights and serve as refuges for out-of-state individuals seeking abortion care.
These changes have altered access to abortion, creating more logistical and financial challenges for many in conservative states. However, they have not decreased the overall number of procedures performed monthly across the U.S.
Residents and abortion rights reacts to the speaker (Via Tom Cutter/Shutterstock)
This situation means higher expenses for gas or airfare, accommodations, meals, as well as increased logistical planning, including childcare arrangements, and missed workdays.
According to a recent study by the Guttmacher Institute, which supports abortion access, over 161,000 out of slightly more than a million abortions performed in clinics, hospitals, and doctors’ offices were for individuals who crossed state borders to obtain them.
In Kansas and New Mexico, more than two-thirds of abortions were for non-residents, especially Texans.
Since Florida implemented its six-week abortion ban in May, individuals have had to travel farther, as most Southeastern states have similar bans.
Those who are low-income or lack legal status in the country are more likely to face barriers to travel, which can result in lasting consequences.
In Alabama, the Yellowhammer Fund, which previously assisted residents with abortion costs, has ceased its support due to threats of legal action from the state.
