Local organizations react to abortion ban taking effect in Indiana today
SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- As of today, abortions can only be performed in hospitals or outpatient clinics owned by hospitals as Indiana joins more than 12 other states in a near-total abortion ban.
You may remember the state was the first to pass a law limiting abortion access after the supreme court overturned Roe v. Wade in June.
Exceptions to the law will only be considered in cases of rape and incest, and only before the 10th week of pregnancy.
Further exceptions may also be made if needed to protect the mother’s life and physical health.
Some groups call this a win, while abortion rights advocates are still fighting for access.
Three organizations are working together on 2 lawsuits against the state, attempting to block the government from being able to enforce the ban.
The first court hearing is set for Monday, but for now Whole Woman’s Health in South Bend and other clinics plan to keep their doors open and help where they can.
Groups on both sides of the issue say their work is not over and they plan to help people adapt.
Whole Woman’s Health in South Bend says it will continue providing services it is allowed to legally, including counseling and information or referrals for clinics in states where abortions are still legal.
Whole Woman’s Health President and CEO, Amy Hagstrom Miller, says her organization has a ‘Wayfinder’ program that “helps people find transportation and support so they know which clinics to go to and connection to that information in the states where abortion remains legal.”
At the same time, groups like Right to Life Michiana say there are other options for women outside of abortion.
Antonio Marchi is the Executive Director of Right to Life Michiana, who adds that they believe “women can get all the help they need right here in our community without turning to abortion.”
A full list of services continuing to be provided by Whole Woman’s Health can be found on their website here.