Until recently, the laws surrounding abortion may have been the furthest thing from your mind. However, when faced with an unplanned pregnancy, it’s vital to be aware of laws that might impact your pregnancy options. The 1973 Supreme Court case, Roe v. Wade, legalized abortion on a federal level while giving individual states the freedom to create laws surrounding the procedure. Since the 70s, there has been endless debate on the topic of abortion, often making it confusing for women to know exactly what laws are in place in their states.

When you’re seeking an abortion, it can be frustrating to feel restricted by laws. However, it’s important to remember that these laws are in place to protect your health and empower you to make the best decision for you and your future.

The following laws are in place regarding abortion in the state of Michigan:

Medical Insurance Coverage for Abortion

Private insurance policies can only cover abortion in life-endangerment cases unless individuals have opted for an optional rider at an additional cost.

The state prohibits insurance companies from providing general plans that cover the procedure. This means that to have insurance coverage for non-medically necessary abortions, women need to purchase separate insurance riders (or add-ons).

Public Funding for Abortion

Public funding is available for abortion only in cases of life endangerment, rape, or incest.

Public funding via taxpayer money cannot fund abortion except in the cases of life endangerment, rape, or incest. Because abortion is a controversial issue for many, this government regulation is in place to prevent taxpayer money from covering abortions.

Pre-Abortion Requirements

The patient must receive state-directed counseling and then wait 24 hours for the procedure after counseling.

This law is in place to ensure that each patient is aware of the details of the abortion procedure and is given information about the possible side effects and what to expect from the abortion procedure they choose. Because this counseling appointment provides a lot of information, the state requires a mandatory waiting period, giving the patient sufficient time to process the information and make a fully-informed decision. This law also protects women from being pressured into an abortion they don’t want and empowers them to make a decision for themselves.

Parental Consent

The parent of a minor must consent before an abortion is provided.

Like all other serious medical procedures performed on minors, parents are required to be involved and provide consent. This law is in place to protect minors from making a decision that might have negative consequences for them and their futures.

Teenagers facing unplanned pregnancies often feel abortion is their only option due to the fear of what their parents might say or do and lack of support from a parental figure. However, when teens are ultimately required to face their parents, they often find that they are supported and accepted, even in the midst of their unplanned pregnancy.

Abortion Timing

An abortion may be performed at or after viability only if the patient’s life is endangered.

Unless the patient’s life is endangered, abortion at the stage of viability outside of the womb is unlawful. This law was created in light of new scientific discoveries that indicate that the fetus in the womb can feel pain at around 20 weeks.

If you have questions about any of these laws or would like to schedule one of our free abortion pre-testing services, please contact us for more information.

Information for this blog about abortion laws in Michigan came from FindLaw.com.

Difficulties are invitations to
Beautiful new beginnings