A bill aimed at removing protections for abortion access in Montana has advanced through the state Senate.
The bill would add language to state law saying that the state’s right to privacy does protect access to abortion, which was the conclusion of the 1999 Amstrong decision from the Montana Supreme Court. Republican Sen. Keith Regier of Kalispell says that the high court’s decision was wrong, and that a pregnant person is not entitled to an individual right to privacy to seek an abortion.
The bill would not amend the state’s Constitution. Opponents say it exceeds the Legislature’s authority by interpreting the state constitution, which they say is the responsibility of the courts.
The Montana Senate passed the bill largely along party lines with some Republicans joining Democrats in opposition. It’s likely to clear third reading and move onto the state House of Representatives for consideration.
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Montana Public RadioWhen the U.S. Supreme Court overturned federal protections for abortion access four years ago, Montana providers expected to serve more people from neighboring states with bans. But the ability to put medications in the mail upended that expectation and led to more Montanans getting abortions. A federal case in Louisiana could limit that access. -
jetcityimage/Getty Images/iStockPlanned Parenthood of Montana announced this week it’s opening a new clinic in Bozeman. The facility will open its doors next year and will provide reproductive health and abortion services. It’s been more than 20 years since they’ve opened a new clinic. -
SARINYAPINNGAM/Getty Images/iStockphotoIt’s been a little over four years since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the right to an abortion. Many states have banned or severely restricted access since then. The Dobbs decision also impacted Montana, where abortion access is enshrined in the state Constitution. -
A judge dismisses a challenge to the 2024 initiative that enshrined abortion access in Montana’s Constitution; The BLM revokes bison grazing permits for American Prairie reserve; USDA grants an extension for rural water system program.
