Growing movement undermines pregnant women’s rights as citizens

Proposed laws aim to restrict pregnant women’s rights. Anti-abortion movement advocates treating pregnant women differently under law, penalizing travel for abortion, and undermining their access to medical care. This insidious legal trend, exemplified by Texas’ abortion bounty law, reclassifies pregnant women as second-class citizens, subjecting them to criminal prosecution for actions that would be legal for others. Conservative groups draft legislation to hinder pregnant women’s ability to travel for abortions, targeting those who assist them. They seek to redefine pregnant women’s legal status, jeopardizing their freedoms and protections. This movement not only challenges abortion rights but also impacts medical treatment for pregnant women, arguing for lower standards of care during emergencies. The Supreme Court is considering a case involving the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA), which ensures lifesaving care for all patients, including pregnant women. However, anti-abortion advocates contest applying EMTALA to pregnant women, opposing necessary abortions for medical emergencies. The legal landscape threatens pregnant women’s health and autonomy, portraying them as inferior citizens. Such measures undermine equality under the law and deny pregnant women essential rights and protections.

Re-reported the article originally published in Slate.