State Regulations for Abortion Clinics
Published: July 10, 2013
Apart from limiting the timing of abortions, many states are imposing new regulations on abortion facilities and doctors. Proponents of the laws say the rules will make abortions safer. But clinic directors and professional societies say that many of the laws have no medical value and are intended to raise costs or force clinics to close.
Legislative Standards and Clinic Requirements
Regarding specific legislation, a bill in Texas, if passed, would require all clinics to meet the standards of ambulatory surgical centers and require doctors to have admitting privileges at local hospitals. Other regions also have laws requiring doctors to have admitting privileges at local hospitals.
Levels of State Regulation
The regulatory landscape for abortion facilities varies significantly between states as follows:
- Stringent Requirements: States that have the most stringent abortion clinic requirements, mirroring those for surgery centers that perform more complex procedures.
- Post-First Trimester Rules: Have strong abortion clinic regulations that apply after the first trimester, or 14 weeks into pregnancy.
- Staffing and Facility Standards: Have strong abortion clinic regulations but less elaborate requirements for facilities and staffing.
- Licensing Procedures: Have licensing and inspection procedures for abortion clinics.
- Basic Licensing: Have no special rules for abortion clinics; state relies on medical licensing of doctors and consumer complaints.
Legal Status and Challenges
Currently, laws in Alabama, Arizona, Mississippi, North Dakota and Wisconsin are under court challenge.