Map Shows Abortion 'Shield Laws' in Each US State
Summary
New Jersey has passed a law to protect people seeking abortions and gender-affirming care, as well as the healthcare providers who offer these services. The law prevents state agencies from helping with investigations from other states, shields providers from licensing penalties, and bans blocking access or harassing patients and providers.Key Facts
- New Jersey's new law protects patients and healthcare providers involved in abortion and gender-affirming care.
- The law stops New Jersey state agencies from assisting out-of-state investigations related to these healthcare services.
- Providers' professional licenses are protected from penalties for offering legal care in New Jersey.
- It is now a crime to block clinic entrances or intimidate patients and providers seeking or offering care.
- The law was signed by Governor Mikie Sherrill on August 20, 2024.
- This law is part of a growing number of "shield laws" in Democratic-led states after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022.
- 23 states and the District of Columbia have some form of shield law protecting abortion and related care.
- Some states explicitly protect care given via telehealth to patients in different states, but legal questions remain about cross-state protections.
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