are likely related to the abortion laws of each particular U.S. state. Laws vary from state to state, and may include things such as whether insurance can cover abortion services, the waiting period required, parental notification or consent requirements, and the gestational age limit imposed for abortion procedures. Due to these restrictions, many individuals – especially those with financial means – may choose to travel to another state for access to abortion services. This phenomenon is particularly apparent in states with more restrictive abortion laws and those with no abortion services. In recent years, certain states, such as New York, have become “abortion sanctuaries” by passing some of the most progressive abortion laws in the country – expanding access to abortion services for anyone who makes the journey, thus increasing the likelihood of out-of-state abortions.
Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has made it more difficult for some people to access abortion services in their home state due to travel restrictions, closure of clinics, and other factors. This has led many people to seek out-of-state abortion services, which may account for an increase in out-of-state abortions in certain areas.
In general, the patterns of out-of-state abortions are likely related to the overall availability of abortion services in each particular state. Those states with more restrictive abortion laws, or those with no abortion services, are likely to see a higher rate of out-of-state abortions. Additionally, the ongoing pandemic has likely made it more difficult for people to access abortion services in their home state and therefore created additional demand for out-of-state services.
