reports that Maryland Attorney General Brian Frosh announced a new law that closes a loophole in abortion care in the state. The law mandates that starting October 1, all licensed facilities in Maryland must meet the same standards for the provision of abortion care, regardless of whether they primarily provide abortion services or not.
Previously, some facilities that provided abortions but were not primarily abortion clinics were able to operate without meeting the same standards as licensed clinics. This loophole allowed for potential disparities in the quality of care provided to women seeking abortions. The new law aims to ensure that all facilities providing abortion services in Maryland meet the same standards, including requirements for equipment, staffing, and infection control protocols.
Attorney General Frosh stated that the new law is crucial to safeguarding the health and safety of women seeking abortion care in Maryland. He emphasized that all women deserve access to safe and high-quality abortion services, regardless of where they seek care. Proponents of the law argue that it will help protect women from potential harm and ensure that all facilities providing abortion services adhere to the same level of care.
The passage of this law comes amidst a nationwide debate over access to abortion services, with many states passing restrictive laws that limit women’s access to abortion. Maryland’s new law is seen as a step towards ensuring that women’s reproductive rights are protected and that all women have access to safe and comprehensive abortion care. The law is expected to go into effect on October 1 and will apply to all licensed facilities in the state that provide abortion services.
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