Abortion Access in Alaska

1. What are the state-level laws governing abortion access in Alaska?


Currently, in Alaska, state laws regarding abortion access include:

– A woman must receive state-directed counseling that includes information designed to discourage her from having an abortion and then wait 24 hours before the procedure is provided.

– Parental consent is required for minors seeking an abortion.

– Insurance plans may not cover abortion services unless the woman’s life is endangered or the pregnancy is a result of rape or incest.

– Public funding is available for abortion only in cases of life endangerment, rape, or incest.

– The use of telemedicine for medication abortion is prohibited.

– Abortion facilities must meet all the same regulations as other medical facilities.

– An ultrasound must be performed prior to the procedure and the patient must be given the opportunity to view the image and hear a description of it.

– The state requires that doctors performing abortions meet certain qualifications, including completion of four hours of education on abortion law and services.

2. When did the state of Alaska legalize abortion?


The state of Alaska legalized abortion in 1970.

3. How does the state of Alaska regulate abortion procedures?


The state of Alaska regulates abortion procedures through the Alaska Statutes Title 18, Chapter 15. This chapter outlines the medical standards for abortion procedures in the state, as well as requirements for licensed practitioners, such as informed consent and mandatory counseling. It also outlines the waiting period for an abortion to be performed, which is 24 hours prior to the procedure.

4. What are the legal requirements for obtaining an abortion in Alaska?


In Alaska, a woman must receive in-person and written informed consent from a health care provider 24 hours before obtaining an abortion. A parent or legal guardian must give informed consent for minors under the age of 18. There is no law requiring waiting periods or restricting the reasons why a woman can obtain an abortion.

5. Does the state of Alaska offer comprehensive reproductive health services?


Yes, the state of Alaska offers comprehensive reproductive health services. Services may vary depending on the specific county, but generally, reproductive health services are available and include contraception, testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), pregnancy testing, prenatal care, abortion services, and counseling.

6. Does Alaska have any restrictions on late-term abortions?


Yes, Alaska has restrictions on late-term abortions. According to the Alaska Statutes, abortions after the 20th week of gestation may only be performed if the pregnant woman’s life is in danger or if the abortion is necessary to prevent serious harm to the woman’s health. In addition, a woman must have written certification from two physicians that an abortion is necessary.

7. What is the parental consent law for minors seeking an abortion in Alaska?


In Alaska, minors under 18 years of age seeking an abortion must obtain the consent of one parent or legal guardian in order to have the procedure. If the minor is unable to obtain parental consent for any reason, they may petition the court to waive this requirement.

8. Does Alaska fund abortion services through Medicaid?


No, Alaska does not fund abortion services through Medicaid.

9. Does Alaska require that women receive counseling prior to obtaining an abortion?


No, Alaska does not require women to receive counseling prior to obtaining an abortion.

10. Does Alaska impose waiting periods before a woman can obtain an abortion?


Yes, Alaska imposes a 24-hour waiting period before a woman can obtain an abortion.

11. Are there any restrictions on telemedicine abortion services in Alaska?


Yes. In Alaska, telemedicine abortion services are subject to certain restrictions. For example, they must be provided only by a certified physician and only in certain cases. In addition, the physician must have a valid prescription for any drugs used in the procedure. Finally, the patient must provide informed consent prior to the procedure.

12. Is insurance coverage for abortion services available in Alaska?


Yes, insurance coverage for abortion services is available in Alaska as long as the policyholder purchased a plan that covers abortion services prior to August 1, 2019.

13. Does the state of Alaska require providers to offer medically accurate information about abortion services?


Yes, the state of Alaska does require providers to offer medically accurate information about abortion services.

14. Are there any laws regarding the disposal of fetal remains in Alaska?


Yes. Alaska Statutes § 18.50.010 states that fetal remains must be either buried, cremated, or disposed of in accordance with local regulations.

15. Are there any restrictions on the use of public funds for abortion services in Alaska?


No, there are no restrictions on the use of public funds for abortion services in Alaska. Alaska does not impose any additional restrictions on the use of public funds for abortion services beyond those imposed by the federal government.

16. Is there a ban on abortion based on sex selection in Alaska?


No, there is no ban on abortion based on sex selection in Alaska.

17. Does Alaska allow pharmacists to refuse to fill prescriptions for contraception or abortion medication?


Yes. Under Alaska Stat. § 18.64.020, pharmacists can refuse to fill prescriptions due to religious or moral reasons.

18. Does the state of Alaska require parental notification if a minor seeks an abortion?


Yes. The state of Alaska requires parental notification if a minor seeks an abortion. In Alaska, a minor must provide parental consent in order to receive an abortion.

19. Is there an informed consent requirement for women seeking an abortion in Alaska?


Yes, there is an informed consent requirement for women seeking an abortion in Alaska. A woman seeking an abortion must receive information regarding the procedure, risks, and alternatives to the procedure at least 24 hours before the abortion is performed. The woman must also be provided with a list of agencies that provide free or low-cost services, including adoption agencies.

20. What are the requirements for a safe and legal abortion in Alaska?


In Alaska, a safe and legal abortion requires that the abortion be performed by a licensed physician in a hospital or clinic, or other medical facility approved by the department of health and social services. The abortion must be performed in a manner consistent with accepted medical practice. Women seeking abortions must provide informed consent and attest to their age. Minors (those under 18) must have either written consent from a parent or guardian or have obtained judicial bypass.