Indiana has become the first state to pass a nearly complete abortion ban after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade.
The new restrictions, which begin Sept. 15, were signed by Republican Governor Eric Holcomb within an hour of the bill’s approval Friday, following a marathon legislative session.
The near-ban includes some exceptions, allowing abortions in the case of rape and incest before 10 weeks after conception; to protect the life and physical health of the mother; and if a fetus is diagnosed with a fatal problem.
Under the bill, abortions will only be allowed in hospitals or outpatient clinics controlled by hospitals. Under the new legislation, abortion clinics will lose their license to operate in the state. Doctors who perform illegal abortions risk losing their medical license.
“I am personally most proud of every Hoosier who came forward to boldly share their views in a debate that is unlikely to end anytime soon,” Governor Eric Holcomb said in a statement after signing the bill. “For my part as your governor, I will keep an open ear.”
Indiana became one of the first Republican-led lawmakers to debate restrictions on abortion after the Supreme Court ruling in June.
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