Kentucky

What's Happening in Kentucky?

As of now, counseling that is designed to discourage abortion is required 24 hours prior to the procedure. The counseling can take place in-person or using telemedicine. Patients must also receive an ultrasound where the image is described to them before going through with the abortion. Private insurance companies will only cover abortion in cases of life endangerment unless an optional rider is purchased at an additional cost. Public insurance does not cover abortion. Medicated abortions cannot be administered via telemedicine, and a minor must be given permission from a guardian before receiving and abortion. All abortions must be performed before the 20 week mark unless there is a severe threat to the physical well being and health of an individual. Clinics in this state are also required to meet unnecessary standards that relate to their facilities, staff and equipment. If Roe v. Wade is overturned by the Supreme Court, abortion will become illegal in Kentucky.

In the Legislature

House Bill 3: This bill impacts the process of a minor receiving and abortion and the clinics administering these abortions. Minors must get written consent from a parent, and in cases of shared custody the other parent must be notified. A copy of a government issued ID must also be presented from both the minor and the parent. The written consent must be kept on file for 7 years at the clinic, and the physician is required to provide an affidavit. The bill also amends the process of auditing clinics, and stipulates repercussions for if clinics fail to adhere to the guidelines laid out in portions of KRS 213.101. To understand the full extent of House Bill 3 click HERE.

House Bill 72: This bill would establish a legislative foundation to provide every individual with a right to choose or refuse contraception, sterilization, to carry a pregnancy to term, give birth to a child, or terminate a pregnancy. This seems to be a pro-choice bill.

Senate Bill 321: This bill would change the legal timeframe to receive an abortion from 20 weeks to 15 weeks. It would also authorize the Attorney General and the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure to file an action to enforce this law of the violations of this law.

In the Courts

A federal judge in Kentucky has temporarily blocked the enactment of House Bill 3 listed above. The bill has been temporarily restricted because abortion providers have not had time to comply with the new legislative standards. Learn more about this temporary block HERE.