Deciding whether or not to have an abortion is a big decision. In the Palouse Region, the abortion laws in Idaho and Washington are different within a 6 mile radius. If you are considering abortion, it is important to be informed before you make the permanent decision. What are the laws of the state you’re in?
Abortion laws in idaho
What are the abortion Laws in idaho?
Since the overturning of Roe v. Wade in June 2022, abortion is illegal in the state of Idaho. Nearly all abortions are banned and private citizens can sue abortion providers. The Idaho Supreme Court ruled there is no constitutional right to abortion.
There are only exceptions for the life of the pregnant person and for survivors of rape and incest who have reported the incident to law enforcement.
Abortion regulations in washington
What are the abortion laws in washington?
Since the overturning of Roe v. Wade, the state law still protects abortion, and recent laws have expanded access to providers. Abortion is legal in Washington before the age of viability of a fetus or after viability to protect the life or health of the mother.[viii]
What is the age of viability?
The age of viability of a fetus, which is typically around 24 weeks gestation[ix], is defined by Washington Legislature as when the physician of that particular case says it is likely for the fetus to survive outside of the uterus without extraordinary medical measures.[x]
In addition, the following regulations exist in washington:
- An abortion must be performed by a licensed physician.[viii]
- A physician or private medical facility may refuse to perform or assist in an abortion.[xi]
- A person may not be denied employment or professional privileges due to a refusal to participate in the facilitation of an abortion.[xi]
Are you pregnant and unsure of what to do next? Making a decision can be difficult. Come to Wish Medical for a free pregnancy test and confidential support. An advocate can talk with you about your options. Schedule your pregnancy test appointment HERE.
More topics you might be interested in:
- What Should I Know About Abortion?
- What Are My Options?
- What to Do If You Have An Unplanned Pregnancy
- My Girlfriend is Pregnant – What Do I Do?
REFERENCES
[viii] Washington State, Legislature, Title 9, Chapter 02, Section 9.02.110
[ix] “Fetal Viability.” Medical-Dictionary.TheFreeDictionary.com. The Free Dictionary.
[x] Washington State, Legislature, Title 9, Chapter 02, Section 9.02.170
[xi] Washington State, Legislature, Title 9, Chapter 02, Section 9.02.150
Leann Robertson, Rn
Registered Nurse
The content on this page has been reviewed by our Registered Nurse: LeAnn Robertson.