In Our State
Parental Notification Law Takes Effect Thanks to anti-choice legislators, New Hampshire began the New Year by implementing a new law to restrict young women’s access to abortion. As of January 1, 2012, our state now requires health providers to notify at least one parent or guardian of young women under 18 who are seeking abortion care. There is no waiver in the law for young women who are survivors of rape, incest or physical abuse. Young women who cannot involve their parents, including those who fear a violent reaction may only obtain a waiver by securing permission from a judge. We know the majority of young women facing unintended pregnancy go to their parents for help and support, but we want all young women to be safe. Parental notice laws do nothing to reduce unintended pregnancy or abortion but instead make it harder for young women to access safe and timely access to reproductive health care. |
