Mississippi

What's Happening in Mississippi?

As of now, individuals seeking an abortion in Mississippi must undergo counseling 24 hours prior to going through with the abortion. This counseling is designed to deter people from obtaining an abortion. Minors seeking an abortion must gain permission from their legal guardians, and telemedicine cannot be used to administer medicated abortions. Public insurance policies and those covered under the Affordable Care Act do not cover abortion unless it is a case of rape, incest or life threatening. All patients must undergo an ultrasound before receiving an abortion, and they must be offered a chance to see the image. Abortions cannot be performed after 18 weeks unless there is a life threatening fetal anomaly, severely compromised health, or life endangerment. Abortions may not be performed on the case of sex, race or genetic anomaly, and clinics must conform to burdensome standards concerning their facilities, staffing and equipment. If Roe v. Wade is overturned by the Supreme Court, abortion will become illegal in Mississippi.

In the Legislature

House Concurrent Resolution 18: This resolution recognizes january 22 as the "Day of Tears" in which Mississippi citizens are encouraged to lower their flags to a half mass and remember the "innocents who have lost their lives to abortion."

In the Courts

In December, the Supreme Court heard arguments regarding Mississippi law to ban abortions after 15 weeks. This case is expected to either overturn Roe v. Wade or severely cripple women's reproductive rights. A decision on this Supreme Court case is expected this summer. Click HERE to read more about the arguments.