‘Rough day for us’ – only Mississippi abortion clinic closes

Not only was the clinic the only one to offer abortions in the southern state, it was also at the center of the legal battle that eventually led to the repeal of the nation’s fundamental right to abortion. The Jackson Women’s Health Organization had challenged a law in Mississippi that prohibits abortion after 15 weeks of gestation, in violation of the historic “Roe v. Wade” in 1973, which established a basic right to abortion up to approximately the 24th week of gestation.

No federal abortion law in the US
On June 24, however, the U.S. Supreme Court with its conservative majority declared the Mississippi law constitutional — and simultaneously overturned “Roe v. Waad.” The Supreme Court decision is considered a historic turning point and caused a political earthquake. Because there is no federal abortion law, states can now largely or completely ban abortion. Many conservatively governed states have already decided to do this.

Mississippi now has a law that is even stricter than the 15-week law. It bans all abortions with few exceptions and provides for up to 10 years in prison for violations. The Jackson abortion clinic had tried to have this law blocked by a court, but failed Tuesday and had to close.

Increase in clandestine abortions feared
Abortion clinics in other states have recently had to close. Women who live there and want to have an abortion will have to travel to states where abortion is legal. Another option is abortion pills, but conservative states are stepping in too. Experts also fear an increase in clandestine abortions, which are dangerous for women.