Following the recent striking down of two near-total abortion bans by a Teton County district judge, both Republican and Democratic lawmakers in Wyoming are preparing to introduce new abortion-related bills in the upcoming legislative session, Wyoming Public Media reports.
Members of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus, led by Rep. Rachel Rodriguez-Williams (R-Cody), are planning to reintroduce restrictive abortion measures.
“The judge in Teton County usurps the authority of the Legislature. As a pro-life caucus member, everything is on the table,” said Rodriguez-Williams, who sponsored one of the overturned bans, criticized the judge’s ruling.
One anticipated bill would require abortion clinics to meet the standards of licensed ambulatory surgical centers, akin to hospitals. This would impact the Wellspring Health Access clinic in Casper, the only abortion provider in the state. The proposed legislation would necessitate costly renovations, such as widening hallways and doorways, and impose fines for non-compliance.
Rep. Chip Neiman (R-Hulett), incoming House Speaker and a Freedom Caucus member, supports the measure, emphasizing patient safety.
“If you’re going to have an abortion, you should do it in a facility prepared for emergencies,” Neiman stated.
Critics argue that such regulations are unnecessary, citing the low complication rate of procedural abortions. Wellspring Health Access founder Julie Burkhart noted that the clinic’s complication rate aligns with national figures, less than two percent, calling the proposed regulations burdensome.
Another measure expected to be revived would mandate an ultrasound 48 hours before obtaining medication to end a pregnancy. Neiman defended the requirement, citing concerns about ensuring the correct trimester for the procedure. Critics have labeled similar policies as nonmedical and intended to deter patients through unnecessary hurdles.
Democratic legislators, led by Rep. Mike Yin (D-Jackson), plan to reintroduce the Wyoming Reproductive Freedom Act, designed to protect abortion access. Yin emphasized the need for clarity and protection for both patients and doctors.
“Doctors shouldn’t face jail time for providing necessary health care,” he said.
Yin also highlighted the broader impact of abortion restrictions on Wyoming’s health care system, noting that bans are complicating efforts to recruit OB-GYNs in a state already facing maternity care shortages.
With Democrats comprising less than 10% of the Wyoming Legislature, the fate of the Reproductive Freedom Act remains uncertain. Yin expressed hope that some pro-choice Republican lawmakers might support the bill.
The 68th Wyoming Legislature will convene on January 14 in Cheyenne, where these contentious issues will likely dominate the session.
