Virginia sees nation's largest spike in abortions
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Virginia had the greatest increase in clinician-provided abortions nationwide last year, according to a new analysis.
Why it matters: It's the latest data to show just how much the limited abortion access in the South has impacted the only Southern state without a post-Roe abortion ban or waiting period.
By the numbers: The number of clinician-provided abortions in Virginia jumped from about 33,400 in 2023 to nearly 39,000 last year, per data compiled by Guttmacher, a research group that supports reproductive rights.
- That's the biggest spike of any state in the country.
- The data shows Virginia also had the largest percentage point increase of out-of-state abortion patients: About 15% in 2023 to nearly 25% last year.
- Between July and December of last year, the number was nearly 30%.
State of play: Since Roe was overturned, Virginia's abortion rate has consistently gone up due to being one of the few access points for people in nearby states with strict bans.
- And Florida's six-week ban, which went into effect last May, likely resulted in Virginia absorbing patients from the Sunshine State, per Guttmacher.
- Virginia's abortion providers had been bracing for more out-of-state patients ahead of that ban by beefing up staff statewide.
- But many also said they don't have the capacity to meet the demand.
Between the lines: While abortion is legal in Virginia, the right to one is not enshrined in the constitution.
- That could change in 2026, when Virginians might vote on whether to amend the state constitution to guarantee access.
- But first, the measure needs to pass both chambers again next year.
What we're watching: The Democrat-controlled state legislature has rejected a slate of anti-abortion bills from Republicans over the years.
- But their slight majority, and ability to block those bills, could be tested in November, when all of the House of Delegates seats are up for grabs.