On November 5, 2024, 76% of the voters in Maryland approved the Maryland Right to Reproductive Freedom Amendment. This initiative cemented a “right” to abortion in the state’s constitution and prevents enactment of laws that protect women and young girls from coerced or unwanted abortions. Abortion was already legal in Maryland through all nine months of pregnancy.
Many pro-life supporters argued that enshrining abortion in the constitution would divert attention and resources away from broader efforts that promote a woman’s wellbeing. This amendment applies to children, which means that “reproductive” medicines will be available to children without involving parents. As it was, prior to the amendment, Maryland had very few protections in place when it came to abortion. Minors are not required to obtain parental consent for an abortion, and the parental notification law has numerous exceptions.
