The legality of abortion in the United States has been a contentious issue since the Supreme Court’s decision in Roe v. Wade. Currently, the legality of abortion is determined by individual states, leading to a patchwork of laws across the country. The Washington Post is keeping track of which states have legal abortion, which have banned it, and which are threatening access to abortion.
In the upcoming election, voters in several states will have the opportunity to weigh in on abortion rights through constitutional amendments on the ballot. President Biden has expressed support for legal access to abortion and has called on Congress to pass a law that would protect abortion rights nationwide. In contrast, former President Trump has shifted his stance on abortion over the years, ultimately stating that the issue should be decided by individual states.
A recent study found that the number of women using abortion pills to end pregnancies without the direct involvement of a U.S.-based medical provider has increased significantly following the Supreme Court’s decision to eliminate the constitutional right to abortion. Despite this, access to the abortion pill mifepristone remains largely available.
The Supreme Court recently heard arguments on a case involving mifepristone, with the outcome potentially impacting access to the abortion pill. While the full access to mifepristone will remain in place for now, the case highlights the ongoing debate over abortion rights in the United States and the importance of access to reproductive health care.