The recent implementation of Florida’s six-week abortion ban has Virginia’s abortion providers preparing for an influx of out-of-state patients. This is significant because Virginia stands out as the only state in the South without a post-Roe abortion ban or a mandatory waiting period, making it a likely destination for those seeking abortion care from neighboring states with stricter regulations.
Since the Supreme Court’s decision to strike down Roe v. Wade in June 2022, Virginia has seen an uptick in its abortion rate, largely due to its relatively more accessible services compared to nearby states with stringent bans. According to data from the Guttmacher Institute, Virginia has ranked among the top 10 states nationwide with the highest percentage increase in out-of-state abortion patients since 2020. The Virginia League for Planned Parenthood has noted a substantial rise in out-of-state patients, with the percentage increasing from 3% in 2022 to 30% last week.
In response to Florida’s abortion ban, the Virginia League of Planned Parenthood is ramping up staffing in its clinics across Richmond, Hampton, and Virginia Beach. However, it’s important to note that Virginia’s capacity to accommodate the surge in demand is limited. Despite efforts to meet the needs of patients, providers were already facing challenges prior to the fall of Roe, particularly with the influx of individuals from Texas seeking abortions.
The situation is particularly concerning for those who have to travel long distances for abortion care, as they are more likely to have lower incomes, belong to marginalized communities, or come from Republican congressional districts. For Floridians, the closest abortion clinics are in North Carolina, which has its own set of restrictions including a 72-hour waiting period. Virginia, with its removal of the 24-hour waiting period in 2020, becomes the next feasible option for many seeking timely and accessible abortion care.
