Florida

Abortion is generally BANNED AFTER 6 WEEKS in Florida — often before many people know they are pregnant. This so-called “heartbeat law” detects fetal cardiac electrical activity. Narrow exceptions apply.

The gestational limit in Florida is 6 weeks of pregnancy (measured from the last menstrual period, unless otherwise specified). Procedures must be initiated before this limit is reached.

Exceptions include life of the pregnant person, serious risk of substantial and irreversible physical impairment, rape, incest, human trafficking, and fatal fetal abnormalities.

Florida requires a mandatory waiting period of 24 hours between initial counseling and the procedure. A mandatory ultrasound is also required before the procedure.

Florida requires parental consent for minors seeking an abortion. A judicial bypass option is generally available for minors who cannot involve a parent.

Medication abortion access in Florida is restricted. Mifepristone or misoprostol may only be dispensed in a clinical setting, or may be prohibited entirely if the state's ban covers medication abortion. Telehealth abortion medication services are generally not available in states with near-total bans or early gestational limits.

A 6-week ban (SB 300) took effect May 1, 2024, replacing a prior 15-week limit. Amendment 4 on the November 2024 ballot, which would have established a constitutional right to abortion until viability, failed to reach the required 60% threshold.

For the most current abortion laws in Florida, consult the official source at https://www.floridahealth.gov/programs-and-services/womens-health/family-planning/. Given the rapid pace of legal changes, always verify current law with your healthcare provider or a licensed attorney before making decisions.