The enforcement of Iowa’s six-week abortion ban, known as the “fetal heartbeat” law, has led to a notable uptick in residents traveling out of state for abortion services. Regional abortion funds, including the Chicago Abortion Fund and the Iowa Abortion Access Fund, reported assisting 625 Iowans in 2024, a threefold increase compared to the previous year. These organizations have collectively provided over $250,000 in direct assistance since the ban took effect, covering expenses such as medical procedures, travel, lodging, and childcare.

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The Financial Burden on Patients:

• $250,000+ in aid was provided by abortion funds to cover travel, lodging, and medical costs.

• Many patients face additional childcare and lost wages, making access even harder.

• Without financial support, safe, legal abortion is out of reach for many Iowans.

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Where Are Patients Going?

Neighboring states like Illinois, Minnesota, and Nebraska have been primary destinations for those seeking care. This trend underscores the significant impact of restrictive abortion laws on access to reproductive healthcare and the financial burdens imposed on individuals seeking such services.