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Issues Advocacy: Maine Abortion Law
Freedom of Choice Act
Maine is one of only seven states to pass a Freedom of Choice Act which would protect the right to abortion should Roe v. Wade be overturned:
"It is the public policy of the State that the State not restrict a woman's exercise of her private decision to terminate a pregnancy before viability except as provided in section 1597-A [Maine's young women's access law]." Me. Rev. Stat. Ann. tit. 22, § 1598(1) (Enacted 1979; Last Amended 1993).
For more information please visit: NARAL Pro-Choice America: Maine State Profile
Minors: Young Women's Access Law
Maine does not require minors to have parental notification or consent to have an abortion. Maine Law requires women 17 years old or younger to have an adult co-sign her consent for an abortion. This can be, among others, an adult relative, counselor, clergy person, or a medical professional at the clinic. On the day of the procedure, a minor can speak with a nurse, nurse practitioner, or a social worker who can then sign the necessary forms.
For more information please visit: The Center For Reproductive Rights: Restrictions on Young Women's Access To Abortion Services
Related Links
Family Planning Association of Maine: Policy, Legislation, & Grassroots
Planned Parenthood: What's Happening in My State?
National Conference of State Legislators