Post-Viability Abortion Restriction

Louisiana's post-viability abortion restriction states that no abortion may be provided after viability unless necessary to preserve the woman's life or health.  The physician must use the available method most likely to preserve the life and health of the fetus unless such method poses a greater risk to the woman's life or health.  A second physician must be in attendance.  Both physicians shall take all reasonable steps, in keeping with good medical practice and consistent with the procedure used, to preserve the life and health of a viable fetus, provided that it does not pose an increased risk to the woman's life or health.  La. Rev. Stat. Ann. §§ 40:1299.35.1(10) (Enacted 2001), 40:1299.35.4 (Enacted 2001).

NARAL Pro-Choice America supports the legal framework established in Roe v. Wade and does not oppose restrictions on post-viability abortions, such as Louisiana's, that contain adequate exceptions to protect the woman's life and health.