Would Nevada’s abortion ballot question now allow for abortions through all 9 months of a pregnancy?
By Tabitha Mueller
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NO
Nevada’s ballot question to enshrine abortion access in the state Constitution would protect the right to an abortion until “fetal viability,” which is defined as there being “a significant likelihood of the fetus' sustained survival outside the uterus without the application of extraordinary medical measures.”
That time frame is generally considered about 23 or 24 weeks (roughly six months), or when necessary to protect the life or health of the pregnant patient. But the amendment does not specify a week-based timeline for viability.
Existing Nevada law allows for abortions within 24 weeks of pregnancy, or later only if a physician believes an abortion is “necessary to preserve the life or health of the pregnant woman.”
This fact brief is responsive to conversations such as this one.
Sources
The Nevada Independent Indy Explains: What Question 6 would mean for abortion rights in Nevada
Nevada Secretary of State Proposed amendment
Nevada Revised Statutes Nevada law on abortions
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Facts Are Important: Understanding and Navigating Viability
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