Samantha Wright / Boise State Public Radio

The Idaho state legislature has recently proposed a bill that could criminalize transporting minors for abortion without parental consent. If passed, Idaho would become the first state to restrict interstate travel for abortion, in an attempt to strengthen the existing state bans on abortion and enforce further limitations.

The proposed House Bill 242 aims to create the offense of “abortion trafficking,” which would be defined as an adult assisting a minor in obtaining an abortion or abortion pills without their parent or guardian’s permission. The bill targets those who “recruit, harbor, or transport the pregnant minor within this state.”

Given that abortion is banned in Idaho, except in medical emergencies, the bill would primarily apply to individuals who are traveling out of the state to access abortion services elsewhere. The proposed legislation clearly states that it is applicable even if “the abortion provider or the abortion-inducing drug provider is located in another state.”

If passed, the bill would make “abortion trafficking” a felony punishable by two to five years in prison. Unlike in some states where local prosecutors refuse to enforce abortion bans, the Idaho Attorney General will enforce the law if local prosecutors fail to do so.

The bill has already been passed by the Idaho state House with 57 votes in favor and 12 against. On Monday, it advanced to the full chamber after being approved by the state Senate committee.

The proposed bill has received criticism from reproductive rights groups and other organizations advocating for access to abortion services. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has expressed concerns that the bill would have significant implications for minors seeking abortion services and those who provide the services.

Subscribe
Notify of
guest
1 Comment
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
JOAN D. FORD
JOAN D. FORD
11 months ago

CAVALIER States are a disgrace to the USA. Viva the CREATION of the “HUMAN LIFE AMENDMENT” …