Embedded Files
Information last updated: 05/18/22
What's Happening in Louisiana?
As of now, Individuals who are seeking abortions must must receive counseling designed to discourage them from moving forward with the abortion 24 hours before getting the procedure. Health care plans that are offered under the state exchange for the Affordable Care Act cannot provide coverage for abortions. Telemedicine cannot be used to administer medicated abortions, and minors must receive parental consent. At least 24 hours before the abortion, the patient must receive an ultrasound where the image is described to them. Abortions after 20 weeks may only be provided in cases of severely compromised physical health or a fatal fetal anomaly. Public funding for abortions is only available in cases of incest, rape or life endangerment. If Roe v. Wade is overturned by the Supreme Court, abortion will become illegal in Louisiana.
Local Organizations
Louisiana Coalition for Reproductive Health
The Louisiana Coalition for Reproductive Health was formed in 2014. This statewide alliance of organizations and individuals fights for reproductive and sexual freedom through advocacy, law and policy change, and movement building.
Louisiana Governor
There are many ways pro-choice supporters and organizers can fight for reproductive rights. We encourage individuals to support their local organizations, write to government representatives and vote for politicians that defend reproductive rights.
In the Legislature
House Bill 274: This bill would expand the information that must be taught about adoption during sexual education in high school. The lesson would include benefits of adoption to society, why adoption is preferable to abortion, statistical data on abortion, adoption and childbirth and public and private resources available to pregnant mothers and parents.
House Bill 344: This bill, if passed, declares that the state of Louisiana, it's government officials and all political subdivisions will not provide financing or support to be in accordance with the Roe V. Wade Supreme Court decision. The bill claims that it is within the state's sovereign rights to protect the lives of the unborn.
House Bill 800: Known as Louisiana's "Heartbeat Bill" this bill would prohibit a medical professional from administering an abortion if a fetal heartbeat has been detected. Physicians are required to administer a fetal heartbeat test before proceeding with any abortion.
House Bill 813: Known as the "Abolition of Abortion in Louisiana Act of 2022" this bill states that life begins at fertilization and that from that point on the state has a vested interest in protecting and unborn child. It also states that any federal laws, statutes or decisions will be treated as void should they deprive an unborn child of their right to life, as outlined in this bill.
Senate Bill 211: This bill allows organizations that encourage women to use adoption services or parent their unborn children to apply for funds from the state. Organizations that provide resources or referrals for abortions cannot receive this money.
Senate Bill 388: This bill expands criminal abortions (an abortion that is done with or without the individuals consent by an individual that is not a certified doctor) to the use of abortion pills such as mifespristone or misopostol.
In the Courts
In 2020, the Supreme Court of the United States ruled that a Louisiana law that required that physicians providing abortions have admitting privileges at hospitals was unconstitutional because it created an undue burden for those seeking an abortion. Read more about this case HERE.
John Bel Edwards
State Capitol
Office of the Governor
PO Box 94004
Baton Rouge, LA 70804
Website:
https://gov.louisiana.gov/page/contact
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