Maryland is one of the most liberal states on abortion laws. Proponents and opponents of the state’s laws continue to debate the particulars of requirements passed by state lawmakers.
Here are quotes from pro-choice and pro-life advocates as well as from state leaders:
“Maryland provides virtually no protection for women and minors seeking abortion. It does not have an informed consent law, and its parental notice law contains a loophole that eviscerates the protection this requirement typically provides. It also allows and funds destructive embryo research.”
— Americans United for Life
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Maryland abortion laws require notification to parents when a minor seeks an abortion. However, a doctor may avoid notification if it is determined it would result in abuse for the minor, if it is in the best interest of the minor, or if the minor is mature and capable enough to make her own decision,
according to Planned Parenthood of Maryland.
“Parents should be involved in the decisions of their children. But there are some families where there has been abuse, there are some families where there’s been neglect, if there is proper protection in the law, then let’s take a look at it.”
— Maryland Sen. Benjamin Cardin, a Democrat, On The Issues
There is some debate about refusing to allow referrals for abortion.
“No person may be required to participate in, or refer to any source for, medical procedures that result in an abortion. The refusal to participate, permit, or refer may not be a basis for civil liability or other recriminatory action.
“A health-care provider or hospital is not immune from civil liability or recriminatory action if the refusal to refer caused death or serious physical or long-lasting injury to the woman and was otherwise contrary to the standards of medical care.”
— NARAL Pro-Choice America
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“I believe we should be debating health care, not abortions. This should be about women’s health, healthy pregnancies, healthy babies and healthy families. I believe women’s health care decisions should be made by the woman in consultation with her doctor, not by politicians and insurance executives.”
— Democratic Sen. Barbara Mikulski, during debate on abortion issues within the Affordable Care Act
“The facts are nothing will change on abortion with me as governor."
— Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan, On The Issues. Hogan said he personally opposes abortion, but he did not plan to change abortion laws in the state.
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