Wyoming Becomes First State to Outlaw the Use of Pills for Abortion – The New York Times

WYOMING BECOMES FIRST STATE TO PROHIBIT PILLS FOR ABORTION

The state of Wyoming has taken a historic stance on abortion, becoming the first state in the nation to outlaw the use of pills for the purpose of ending a pregnancy. The new law, signed into effect on Wednesday, June 3rd, makes it illegal for anyone in the state to use drugs such as mifepristone (also known as RU-486) and misoprostol for the purpose of ending a pregnancy.

The legislation was introduced by state Representative Chuck Gray, who argued that the drugs, which have been approved by the FDA since 2000, should be restricted due to their potentially dangerous side effects. According to Gray, the drugs are associated with an increased risk of infection and even death. “We must protect the lives of women in Wyoming, and that is why I am proud to have sponsored this legislation,” Gray said.

The new law will require doctors to adhere to the traditional surgical method of abortion, which requires the use of forceps and other instruments to remove the fetus from the uterus. There are also additional restrictions on the use of anesthesia, which will be limited to general anesthesia in most cases.

Opponents of the law are quick to point out that the traditional surgical method of abortion is not only more expensive than the pill method, but also carries a greater risk of complications. “This law puts women’s health at risk,” said Dr. Jane Doe, a reproductive rights advocate in the state. “It is a step backwards for women’s rights and does nothing to protect women’s health.”

The new law is expected to be challenged in court, but for now it stands as a symbol of the increasingly conservative stance that Wyoming is taking on abortion. The law is a stark reminder that the right to choose is still a contested issue across the nation, and that reproductive rights are far from guaranteed.

The new law will take effect on July 1st, 2020.