North Dakota has become the latest state to enact a near-total ban on abortion, just one month after the State Supreme Court temporarily blocked a similar ban from taking effect. The new law, which takes immediate effect, is a dramatic shift for the state, where abortions had been legal up until 22 weeks of pregnancy. Governor Doug Burgum signed the bill into law on Monday and said it reaffirms North Dakota as a pro-life state.
Governor Doug Burgum expressed his support for the legislation in a statement: "This new law demonstrates our commitment to protecting life at every stage and reinforces our dedication to being a pro-life state."
The bill bans abortion after the sixth week of pregnancy, including cases of rape or incest. However, there are exceptions for abortions deemed necessary based on reasonable medical judgment intended to prevent death or serious health risk to the pregnant woman. Additionally, physicians who perform abortions unknowingly violating this law will not face repercussions.
North Dakota now joins twelve other states that have enacted six-week abortion bans like Georgia, Kentucky, and Ohio. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis also signed such legislation into law in April.
Pro-choice advocates have condemned these laws as unconstitutional attacks on women's reproductive rights. Janet Cruz-Ramirez, Executive Director of Women's Health Advocacy Network (WHAN), stated: "These laws blatantly disregard established standards set forth by Roe v. Wade and undermine women's autonomy over their own bodies."
Despite strong opposition from pro-choice groups across America who argue these strict laws prove harmful towards women's health care accessibilities; proponents maintain their position steadfastly asserting protection for unborn lives remains paramount above all else