Iowa’s new abortion law, which bans the procedure after approximately six weeks of gestation, went into effect on Monday, marking a significant shift in the state’s reproductive rights landscape.
The law, which was previously blocked by an injunction, was given the green light by the Iowa Supreme Court last month, with a 4-3 decision allowing it to be enforced. As of 8 a.m. local time on Monday, the injunction was lifted, and the law took effect.
Prior to the new law, abortion was permitted in Iowa until around five months of pregnancy, well into the second trimester. However, the new legislation marks a stark contrast to the more permissive abortion laws in many Democrat-led states, such as New York and California, which have expanded access to the procedure in the wake of the Roe v. Wade decision.
Pro-life advocates in Iowa, including Governor Kim Reynolds, are hailing the law as a major victory for the unborn. Reynolds released a statement celebrating the court’s decision, saying, “There is no right more sacred than life, and nothing more worthy of our strongest defense than the innocent unborn.”
Reynolds emphasized that the law reflects the will of the people of Iowa, who have consistently supported pro-life legislation. She also highlighted the state’s commitment to supporting women and families, saying, “We will continue to develop policies that encourage strong families, which includes promoting adoption and protecting in vitro fertilization (IVF). Families are the cornerstone of society, and it’s what will keep the foundation of our state and country strong for generations to come.”
The new law is expected to have a significant impact on abortion access in the region, with clinics in neighboring Minnesota preparing for an influx of patients from Iowa.
