Although New York is relatively less restrictive than other states in terms of abortion, the state does impose an unconstitutional limit on abortions at 24 weeks post-fertilization, making exceptions only for cases where the life (but not health) of the woman is endangered. Additionally, New York requires the presence of a second physician during the later term procedure. New York also allows certain individuals or entities to refuse to provide women abortions, and subjects abortion providers to burdensome restrictions not applied to other medical professionals via Targeted Regulation of Abortion Providers (TRAP) laws.
New York
New York
Although New York is relatively less restrictive than other states in terms of abortion, the state does impose an unconstitutional limit on abortions at 24 weeks post-fertilization, making exceptions only for cases where the life (but not health) of the woman is endangered. Additionally, New York requires the presence of a second physician during the later term procedure. New York also allows certain individuals or entities to refuse to provide women abortions, and subjects abortion providers to burdensome restrictions not applied to other medical professionals via Targeted Regulation of Abortion Providers (TRAP) laws.
In February 2017, New York Assembly Member David DiPietro introduced legislation to ban abortions after 20 weeks post-fertilization. The bill contains narrow health and life exceptions and does not contain exceptions for pregnancies resulting from rape or incest. It would also ban a safe and medically proven method of performing second trimester abortions. This bill carries over to New York’s 2018 session and is eligible for consideration. To view the latest bill status, click here.
In January 2018, New York Assemblyman Peter Lawrence (R-134) introduced legislation to ban abortions after 20 weeks post-fertilization. The bill, A 8907, contains narrow exceptions when there is a “serious health risk” to the mother, and physicians must perform the abortion in the manner most likely to preserve the life of the fetus in case of an exception. This bill also creates reporting requirements. To view the latest bill status, click here.
Legislative news
Currently, New York outlaws abortion after 24 weeks gestational age. During this stage of pregnancy, fetal nonviability, or the inability to...