Abortion in Washington (state)

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Abortion in Washington (state) refers to the legal and social aspects of abortion within the state of Washington. Abortion has been legal in Washington since 1970, three years before the landmark Roe v. Wade decision by the U.S. Supreme Court.

Legal History

In 1970, Washington became the first state to legalize abortion through a vote of the people with the passage of Referendum 20. This law allowed abortion up to the 24th week of pregnancy. The state has maintained a relatively liberal stance on abortion rights compared to other states.

Current Legal Status

As of 2023, abortion is legal in Washington up to 24 weeks of pregnancy. There are no mandatory waiting periods, parental notification requirements for minors, or mandatory counseling sessions. The state also does not require an ultrasound before an abortion procedure.

Access to Services

Washington has a relatively high number of abortion providers compared to other states. There are approximately 34 clinics and 90 providers offering abortion services. The state ensures that abortion services are accessible, particularly in urban areas such as Seattle and Spokane.

Public Opinion and Political Climate

Public opinion in Washington generally supports abortion rights. The state has a history of electing pro-choice politicians and has enacted laws to protect and expand access to abortion services. In recent years, the state government has taken steps to safeguard abortion rights in response to increasing restrictions in other states.

Related Issues

Washington also provides comprehensive sex education and access to contraception, which contribute to lower rates of unintended pregnancies. The state supports reproductive health services through various public health programs.

See Also

• Reproductive rights in the United States
• Abortion in the United States by state
• Planned Parenthood
• Women's rights in the United States
• Healthcare in Washington (state)