Florida Abortion Ban to Take Effect, Cutting Off Major Access Point
New York TimesApr 23
Florida: Abortion Should be Given 'At Any Stage' to Save Mother
Above: A sign at the Planned Parenthood office in Kissimmee, Florida is seen on February 23, 2019. Image copyright: Paul Hennessy/NurPhoto/Contributor via Getty Images
The Facts
Florida's two health authorities warned physicians Thursday of regulatory action if abortion, "when necessary," wasn't carried out "at any stage in pregnancy" to save the life of the mother.
With the aim of combatting what it called "misinformation" about abortion laws in the state, which bans abortion after six weeks, the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) also said that "miscarriage is not an abortion."
The Spin
Republican narrative
The significant challenge to Florida's new abortion law in the upcoming ballot could potentially transform Florida into an "abortion mecca," allowing late-term abortions, attracting out-of-state patients, and invalidating current restrictions like waiting periods and parental consent requirements. It would effectively eliminate most abortion regulations in the state, making Florida an outlier in the region.
Democratic narrative
The proposed amendment to Florida's new abortion law seeks to restore abortion rights, effectively reinstating protections similar to those under Roe v. Wade. It would allow abortions until fetal viability and when necessary to protect the patient's health. It aims to give women more time to make informed decisions and doctors more certainty in providing care.