Controversial State Abortion Bills Spark National Debate

Dani Thayer, left, and Marina Lanae, right, both of Tulsa, Okla., hold pro-choice signs at the state Capitol, Wednesday, April 13, 2022, in Oklahoma City. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki File)

Abortion rights advocates have expressed concerns following the 2022 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that potentially paves the way for state abortion bans. While the fears of tracking women and charging those who get abortions with murder have not materialized in any states, recent legislative discussions have brought these ideas to the forefront.

Oklahoma and North Dakota both considered bills that would allow murder charges for women who obtain abortions, but both states ultimately rejected these proposals. The bills faced opposition from major anti-abortion groups, who typically do not support such extreme measures.

In Missouri, a bill was introduced to create a database of pregnant women deemed 'at risk' of seeking an abortion. The proposed legislation would establish a central registry of expectant mothers and connect them with prospective adoptive parents. While the bill has garnered some support, concerns have been raised about privacy issues and the significant cost associated with its implementation.

Planned Parenthood Federation of America highlighted the potential privacy implications of tracking pregnant women, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding individuals' reproductive health information. Some Democratic-led states have taken steps to protect such data in response to these concerns.

Oklahoma and North Dakota rejected bills proposing murder charges for women seeking abortions.

Abortion rights advocates express concerns post-2022 U.S. Supreme Court ruling.

Missouri introduced a bill to create a database of 'at-risk' pregnant women.

Lawmakers in Oklahoma and North Dakota also considered but ultimately rejected proposals to allow murder charges against women who obtain abortions. Advocacy groups have cautioned against punishing women for seeking abortions, citing instances of coercion and emphasizing the need for compassion and support.

In response to the influx of abortion pills prescribed via telehealth, some lawmakers have proposed stringent measures to curb access to these medications. Concerns have been raised about the potential criminalization of women who experience miscarriages and the broader implications of such restrictive laws.

While similar measures in other states like Idaho and Indiana may not advance, the ongoing debates underscore the complex and contentious nature of abortion legislation in the United States.