State Appeals Ruling on 24-Hour Reflection Period Prior to Abortion

The State of Florida has appealed a January 9 ruling by Leon County Circuit Judge Terry Lewis that found a 2015 law requiring a 24-hour reflection period prior to an abortion unconstitutional. Judge Lewis' decision made permanent a temporary injunction granted by the Florida Supreme Court last year after a Gainesville abortion clinic challenged the law as a violation of privacy rights under the state's Constitution. The FCCB supported a reflection period prior to abortion through the legislative process. The law, which allows a woman to reflect on her decision and the alternatives available before proceeding with the termination of her pregnancy, aligns the abortion procedure with standard medical practice. No other comparable medical procedure is performed without a prior visit and consultation. Reflection periods are in effect in 27 states and have been upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court, but Florida's constitutional privacy provision prompts special considerations in the courts.