Abortion Access in North Carolina

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


In North Carolina, abortion is legal up to 20 weeks. The state requires that women receive information on the alternatives to abortion and the potential risks of the procedure, at least 24 hours before the procedure is performed. Abortion is only available in certain medical facilities, and the patient must be provided with a copy of the informed consent form. Public funding may only be used for abortions in cases of life endangerment, rape, or incest. Additionally, minors must receive parental consent prior to an abortion.

2. When did the state of North Carolina legalize abortion?


The state of North Carolina legalized abortion in 1973.

3. How does the state of North Carolina regulate abortion procedures?


The North Carolina state legislature has enacted a number of restrictions on abortion. These include a 24-hour waiting period and mandatory pre-abortion counseling, required parental consent for minors, and a ban on most late-term abortions. It also requires that abortions be performed in licensed hospitals or clinics and only by licensed physicians. In addition, North Carolina prohibits the use of public funds for abortion services.

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


In North Carolina, abortion is legal up to 20 weeks of gestation. 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. A minor must also obtain written consent from a parent or guardian before the procedure is provided.

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


Yes, the state of North Carolina offers comprehensive reproductive health services. These services include family planning, prenatal care, maternity care, abortion services, and HIV/AIDS testing and counseling.

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


Yes, North Carolina does have restrictions on late-term abortions. According to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, abortions after 20 weeks are illegal except in cases where the mother’s life is in danger or the fetus has a lethal anomaly. Additionally, abortions performed after the 20-week mark must be performed in a licensed hospice or hospital, and two separate physicians must be consulted and sign off on the procedure.

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


In North Carolina, minors seeking an abortion must obtain the consent of one parent or guardian in writing before the procedure can be performed. However, if a minor is unable to obtain parental consent, she may seek authorization from a judge of the superior court in the county where she resides.

8. Does North Carolina fund abortion services through Medicaid?


No, North Carolina does not fund abortion services through Medicaid.

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


Yes, North Carolina requires that women receive counseling prior to obtaining an abortion. The state specifies that counseling must be provided in person and must be done no more than 24 hours before the procedure. The counseling must include information about the development of the fetus, alternatives to abortion, medical assistance for childbirth, and potential risks associated with abortion.

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


Yes. North Carolina imposes a 72-hour waiting period for abortions.

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


Yes, North Carolina has restrictions on telemedicine abortion services. In North Carolina, telemedicine abortions are not allowed. The state requires that the patient be physically present with the provider who prescribed the medication for the abortion. Additionally, a two-parent consent is required for minors seeking abortion services.

12. Is insurance coverage for abortion services available in North Carolina?


No. In North Carolina, abortion services are not covered by insurance.

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


Yes, North Carolina state law requires that providers of abortion services provide accurate information about the risks and benefits of abortion.

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


Yes, there are laws regarding the disposal of fetal remains in North Carolina. According to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, “[t]he disposal of fetal remains is regulated by G.S. 130A-125; 130A-126; and 130A-127, which require that fetal remains be disposed of in accordance with accepted medical practice.” Additionally, “all fetal remains must be disposed of in a manner that is respectful and in accordance with accepted medical practice and state and federal laws.”

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


Yes, there are restrictions on the use of public funds for abortion services in North Carolina. According to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS), public funds may not be used to pay for an abortion unless it is necessary to save the life of the mother or the pregnancy is a result of rape or incest. Additionally, any public facilities providing abortion services must be separate from other public facilities that provide other health care services.

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


No, there is currently no ban on abortion based on sex selection in North Carolina.

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


No. As of 2019, pharmacists in North Carolina are required to fill all prescriptions for contraception and abortion medication that are properly authorized by a licensed practitioner.

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


Yes, North Carolina requires parental notification if a minor seeks an abortion. A minor must receive written consent from a parent or legal guardian before she can have an abortion.

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


Yes. North Carolina requires women to receive informed consent from a physician prior to obtaining an abortion. This includes providing the woman with information on the risks and alternatives to the procedure, as well as information on fetal development and available counseling services.

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


In North Carolina, a person seeking an abortion must meet the following requirements:

1. Be a resident of North Carolina and provide proof of residency.
2. Receive counseling from a licensed medical professional or certified counselor who is qualified to provide information about various pregnancy options.
3. Wait 24 hours after the counseling session before the abortion can be performed.
4. Obtain a written informed consent from the patient and have it signed and notarized by a parent if the patient is under 18 years old.
5. Obtain an ultrasound and have the results reviewed with the patient prior to the abortion procedure.
6. Receive an abortion performed by a licensed physician in an approved facility or hospital.
7. Follow all other applicable state laws and regulations governing medical procedures.