In November 2023, a ballot measure called “The Right to Reproductive Freedom with Protection for Health and Safety” (also known as Issue 1) was added to Ohio’s constitution.
One of the facets of this bill was that “every individual has the right to carry out one’s own reproductive decisions.” However, it also allows for a ban on abortion after fetal viability.
Fetal viability is defined as “the point in a pregnancy when, in the professional judgment of the pregnant patient’s treating physician, the fetus has a significant likelihood of survival outside the uterus with reasonable measures.” This timing is determined on a case-by-case basis in Ohio.
Perhaps you have questions about how this would affect you seeking an abortion today. At this point, most of the same regulations for the state are still in place.
However, courts are currently deciding how the amendment affects the following regulations that have been in place.
1. Minors Must Obtain Parental Consent
If you are under the age of 18, you must receive the consent of one of your legal guardians to obtain an abortion. There is also a provision in the law to obtain consent through a court mandate.
2. You Must Go Through A Waiting Period To Abort
In Ohio, you must make two visits to the center performing your abortion. In the first, you must receive information regarding your abortion from the abortion provider.
The law then states that you must wait 24 hours before returning for the procedure.
Abortion providers filed a lawsuit to challenge the 24-hour waiting period, but no decision has been made yet, as of June 25, 2024.
Before Making Your Choice
The Women’s Resource Center of Hancock County is here for you!
If you think you might be pregnant, the first step is to confirm your pregnancy. Our experienced medical team can provide a free pregnancy test and ultrasound to verify your pregnancy and provide essential health details.
We will also provide comprehensive information on all your options and answer any questions you may have, including those about Ohio abortion laws.
You are not alone. Contact us today!