Summary
Four women are suing Idaho over its strict abortion laws, seeking clarification on exceptions that would allow abortions for serious pregnancy complications before the mother’s life is in immediate danger.
Represented by the Center for Reproductive Rights, the plaintiffs described having to leave Idaho to terminate pregnancies after receiving fatal fetal diagnoses and facing health risks.
The state argued the ban protects “unborn children” and asserted current exceptions suffice.
Doctors testified Idaho’s law creates confusion and delays, potentially worsening health outcomes for pregnant patients needing urgent care.
Idaho also ranks in the bottom half of states for primary care and physician availability. 39 of Idaho’s 44 counties are health professional shortage areas
They’ve already lost 1 of every 5 OBGYN since 2022.