If you’re confused about the legality of abortion after Roe v. Wade was overturned this summer, you’re not the only one.
When the Supreme Court reversed the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision, it handed back the power to legislate abortion to the people and their elected representatives.
This means each state’s legislature will now make laws regulating abortion that are unique to each state.
Is Abortion Legal in Tennessee?
In mid-August, Tennessee’s Human Life Protection Act, which was established in 2019, went into effect. It bans all abortions.
Women whose lives are threatened by a continued pregnancy may still obtain a life-saving abortion.
How is the State Helping Pregnant Women?
In 2020, Tennessee’s Department of Health funded $700 million in benefits for needy families, including pregnant women and their children.
In March 2022, the state expanded its existing coverage of Medicaid care for pregnant women.
Governor Bill Lee proposed the new pregnancy and postpartum benefits as a part of his Supporting Strong Families initiative. “Strong families begin with supported mothers who have access to maternal care,” said Gov. Lee. “We believe the increase in care will not only improve health outcomes for mothers but also significantly improve the first year of life for Tennessee children.”
Pregnant women can also apply for WIC, the Women’s Infants and Children program, which provides help with food and other essentials like toiletries or infant formula.
What Can You Do?
- Get an ultrasound. This will confirm how far along you are in your pregnancy, helping you to know what options you have.
At our clinic we offer free and confidential limited obstetrical ultrasounds, and would be happy to help you take this necessary next step. - Ask questions, especially before you travel for an abortion. What you do with your unplanned pregnancy is a big decision which should never be made until you have all the information. And as the saying goes, knowledge is power. Here are some questions you should ask:
- What are the health risks of an abortion?
- What does placing a child in an adoption agency require?
- How much would it cost to travel out of state for an abortion?
- Would I qualify for government assistance if I choose to give birth?
- If I decide to parent, where can I find parenting education?
Our center can help answer these questions and more, to help you make a confident decision for your pregnancy. Please call us today for a confidential and free consultation.