This article aims to provide a comprehensive review of the abortion laws in Wisconsin. With the current ambiguity surrounding the enforcement of an old law that completely bans abortion, many individuals may be uncertain about their options. Here, we discuss the specifics of Wisconsin’s abortion laws, including waiting periods, parental consent requirements, and time limitations. We also explore the current situation of abortion providers within the state and offer information for those seeking services. A selection of frequently asked questions is included to address common concerns and inquiries.
Legal Status of Abortion in Wisconsin
As of the current time, abortion providers in Wisconsin have temporarily halted providing abortion services due to an existing law that completely bans abortion. This law is old and until now, was not enforced, but there is now a potential for officials to begin enforcing it. Until it’s made clear whether this law will indeed be enforced, abortion services are unavailable within Wisconsin.
Options for Individuals Seeking Abortion in Wisconsin
If you reside in Wisconsin and require an abortion, your options are currently limited to seeking the service out of state unless you qualify for an exception. Exceptions are narrowly defined, typically reserved for situations where the life of the pregnant individual is at risk.
Please note that it is entirely legal to leave Wisconsin and obtain an abortion elsewhere. However, remember that some states impose a mandatory waiting period. This often means you need to first schedule a counseling appointment, wait for a specified period, and then return for your abortion appointment.
Specifics of Wisconsin Abortion Laws
24-Hour Waiting Period
In Wisconsin, the law requires that a pregnant person visit their abortion provider for in-person counseling and then wait 24 hours before returning to obtain the abortion. If the pregnancy poses a risk to your health, this waiting period can be waived.
Parental Consent Requirement
If you are under the age of 18, Wisconsin law demands that a parent or guardian provide consent for your abortion. If obtaining consent from a parent or legal guardian isn’t feasible, you can seek a judicial bypass. This bypass allows you to waive the requirement for parental involvement. Minors requiring assistance navigating the judicial bypass process can contact the If/When/How Judicial Bypass (JB) Helpline at 844-868-2812 or submit a request online.
Abortion After 21 Weeks, 6 Days
Wisconsin law bans abortion after 21 weeks, 6 days of pregnancy (calculated from the first day of the pregnant person’s last period). This remains the case even though, as mentioned earlier, abortion services in Wisconsin have been temporarily suspended due to the potential enforcement of a complete abortion ban.
Abortion Providers in Wisconsin
With the temporary suspension of abortion services in Wisconsin, there are currently no active providers within the state. However, this situation might change depending on future enforcement or relaxation of abortion laws. In the meantime, individuals in need of abortion services will have to seek providers out of state.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is abortion legal in Wisconsin? | Due to an old, unenforced law that completely bans abortion, providers have temporarily stopped offering services. The legality of abortion services in Wisconsin currently depends on whether this law will be enforced. |
| Where can I get an abortion if I’m in Wisconsin? | With the current suspension of abortion services in Wisconsin, you would need to seek these services out of state unless you qualify for an exception, typically if your life is in danger due to the pregnancy. |
| What happens if I’m under 18 and need an abortion? | If you’re under 18, you need parental or guardian consent for an abortion. If getting this consent isn’t possible, you can seek a judicial bypass, which can be facilitated by the If/When/How Judicial Bypass Helpline. |
| How late into a pregnancy can I get an abortion? | Under Wisconsin law, abortion is banned after 21 weeks, 6 days of pregnancy, but with the current suspension of services in Wisconsin, you would need to seek an abortion out of state. |