[Updated Jan. 21, 2014] On Jan. 17, a federal judge overturned a state law requiring women wanting an abortion to have an ultrasound and hear a description of the image from a health-care provider. US District Judge Catherine Eagles said the law, which passed in 2011, was a violation of constitutional free-speech rights.
On July 29, 2013, Governor McCrory (R) signed legislation adding new requirements for abortion clinics and doctors.
Clinics would have to upgrade to become like ambulatory surgical centers, and establish transfer agreements with hospitals. Physicians would have to be present for the duration of an abortion, whether surgical or chemical. Sex-selection abortions would be banned.
The bill also excludes abortion coverage in health plans that will be offered on the state’s online health-insurance exchange. Health plans offered to city and county workers would be subject to the same ban. And state funds would not eligible for use with abortions except in cases of rape or incest or to save the life of the woman.
Supporters of the law say it will protect women. Opponents say it could restrict access to abortion. Only one of North Carolina’s 16 abortion clinics meets the new facilities standards.
During his campaign, Governor McCrory promised not to reduce access to abortion, and he maintains the new law upholds that pledge. Language in the law gives the state health department leeway in the drafting of new regulations, and some abortion-rights supporters are hopeful the state health secretary will limit the impact of the law.
