Where Abortion Laws Have Changed Since the Supreme Court Overturned Roe v. Wade

What Is Roe v. Wade? 

The Supreme Court recently overruled the 1973 decision that abortion is a woman’s constitutional right. The main argument originally was that abortion was included in the “right to privacy” clause in the US Constitution, so it became federally protected. 

However, during the recent case of Dobbs vs. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, this argument was taken down because it lacked credibility and could not be proven. Since the overturning of Roe, abortion is no longer federally protected by the US Constitution, and each of the 50 state legislatures now determines the authority to allow or restrict abortions for themselves. Each state has varying abortion laws, some stricter than others.

Where State Abortion Laws Have Changed

While state abortion laws are constantly changing, abortions are now banned in at least 10 states. Abortion is currently banned in the following states:

1. Alabama

2. Arkansas

3. Kentucky

4. Louisiana 

5. Mississippi

6. Missouri

7. Oklahoma

8. South Dakota

9. Tennessee

10. Texas

Many states are restricting this procedure almost immediately following the Supreme Court’s decision. Additionally, four states now ban abortion at about six weeks of pregnancy. 

Can I Get an Abortion in Texas?

Abortion is banned in the state of Texas, under Chapter 170A of the Texas Health & Safety Code, except in certain narrow circumstances. Section 170A.002 restricts a person from performing, inducing, or attempting an abortion. Exceptions are for situations in which the life or health of the pregnant patient is at risk. These exceptions include:

A licensed physician must perform the abortion.

1. The patient must have a life-threatening condition and be at risk of death or "substantial impairment of a major bodily function" if the abortion is not performed. "Substantial impairment of a major bodily function" is not defined in this chapter.

2. The physician must try to save the life of the fetus unless this would increase the risk of the pregnant patient's death or impairment. It’s also important to note that women can’t be sued or prosecuted for their own abortions.

Now what? 

If you are considering traveling for an abortion, be sure to confirm your pregnancy with free pregnancy testing and an ultrasound exam at our center. An ultrasound is necessary to confirm how far along you are, whether your pregnancy is viable (healthy/growing), and if you are experiencing any pregnancy complications.  Schedule a free appointment today to ensure your pregnancy details and options. We are here for you.