Planned Parenthood Reacts to Gov. Little Signing HB 242
For Immediate Release: April 5, 2023
BOISE, ID — Again disregarding the will of constituents pleading with him not to sign this legislation, Governor Little signed HB 242 into Idaho law, creating the nation’s first crime of so-called “abortion trafficking,” which outlaws an adult assisting a young person accessing abortion care or obtaining abortion-inducing drugs with the intent of concealing the abortion from their parent. While most young people do include their parents in the decision to get an abortion, some are in dangerous, abusive situations in which disclosing pregnancy status could put them in further harm.
The new law drew national attention, including pressing concerns about the state’s ability – legally and practically – to restrict Idahoans from traveling into neighboring states to access legal abortion care. Additionally, it remains unclear how the state intends to enforce the law, posing serious risks for individuals’ medical privacy.
Statement from Alexis McGill Johnson, president and CEO, Planned Parenthood Federation of America
“Banning abortion wasn’t enough for these anti-abortion zealots. They will stop at nothing to control what we do and where we go — even if it means holding people hostage when trying to access essential health services. Young people seeking abortion deserve our compassion and support, not the extreme government overreach this law sanctions. Make no mistake: HB242 will have a chilling effect on those who would help minors access critical abortion care, putting young people in dangerous and isolating situations. We know these extreme attacks will continue and Planned Parenthood will never stop fighting for everyone’s ability to control their own lives, bodies, and futures.”
Statement from Mistie DelliCarpini-Tolman, Idaho State Director of Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates
“For too long now Idaho lawmakers have slipped under the radar with some of the strictest anti-abortion laws in the country. Now, they are using an incredibly serious term like trafficking to talk about young people traveling with trusted adults to access a legal procedure in another state. It’s despicable.
This law should serve as a warning to everyone living in states with lawmakers that are hostile to this critical health care procedure: this could be coming to your state, too. We’ve seen how fast harmful legislation can catch on and spread across the country. Here in Idaho, we’re going to do everything in our power to stop it. To our patients and the people who depend on us for care: we won’t stop fighting for you.”
Due to the emergency clause within the bill, HB 242 will officially become law 30 days after Governor Little’s signature.