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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The Montana House of Representatives has advanced a bill to limit Medicaid coverage of abortions for low-income patients. -
We’re on day 55 of the 90-day session. This week we’re talking about health care funding, childcare initiatives and vaccine bills.This is The Session, a look at the policy and politics inside the Montana statehouse.
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Montana's A.G. threatens to sue Walgreens over the abortion pill. The 2024 ballot could include a slew of proposed constitutional changes. Gov. Gianforte celebrates a major legislative win. And some Republican lawmakers propose a definition of sex.
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Allen G. Breed/APWalgreens pharmacies will not distribute medication abortion pills in Montana, although the procedure remains legal here.
