- In 2017, 71,050 abortions were provided in Florida, though not all abortions that occurred in Florida were provided to state residents: Some patients may have traveled from other states, and some Florida residents may have traveled to another state for an abortion. There was a 10% decline in the abortion rate in Florida between 2014 and 2017 -- from 20.6 to 18.6 abortions per 1,000 women of reproductive age. Abortions in Florida represent 8.2% of all abortions in the US.
NEW RESTRICTIONS ON ABORTION IN FLORIDA
In Florida, the following restrictions on abortion were in effect as of January 1, 2021:
- A patient must receive state-directed counseling that includes information designed to discourage the patient from having an abortion.
- Health plans offered in the state's health exchange under the Affordable Care Act can only cover abortion in cases of life endangerment, rape or incest unless individuals purchase an optional rider at an additional cost.
- The parent of a minor must be notified and consent before an abortion is provided.
- Public funding is available for abortion only in cases of life endangerment, rape or incest.
- A patient must undergo an ultrasound before obtaining an abortion; the provider must offer the patient the option to view the image.
- An abortion may be performed at 24 or more weeks after the last menstrual period only in cases of life or health endangerment.
