Post-Viability Abortion Restriction

Alabama's post-viability restriction states that no abortion may be provided after viability unless two physicians certify in writing that it is necessary to preserve the woman's life or to prevent "substantial and irreversible impairment of a major bodily function."  The physician must use the method that provides the best opportunity for fetal survival unless it poses a significantly greater risk of the woman's death or the "substantial and irreversible impairment of a major bodily function" than other available methods.  A second physician must attend a post-viability abortion to provide medical attention to the fetus.  Ala. Code §§ 26-22-1 to -5 (Enacted 1997).

NARAL Pro-Choice America supports the legal framework established in Roe v. Wade and does not oppose restrictions on post-viability abortion so long as they contain adequate exceptions to protect the woman's life and health.  NARAL Pro-Choice America opposes Alabama's post-viability restriction because the health exception is dangerously narrow.