Massachusetts Removes Abortion Restrictions, Joining List of 9 Other States
Governor Maura Healey signed legislation that removes the state’s prior framework for abortions after 24 weeks of pregnancy.
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey recently signed legislation that removes abortion restrictions in the state, joining 9 other states with similar laws. The Prioritizing Patient Access to Care Act removes the prior framework allowing abortions after 24 weeks, permitting the procedure at any point in pregnancy based on the professional judgment of the physician.
Healey expressed concern over women and families facing devastating news in late pregnancy, forcing them to travel long distances and pay out-of-pocket for care. Medical groups, such as the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine, support the new law, emphasizing the need for stronger abortion protections in the country. Opponents argue that the law would allow abortion up to birth, even on healthy fetuses, but this is not its purpose, according to supporters.
Currently, 13 states ban abortion at all stages of pregnancy, while four others ban abortion after about six weeks.
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