Last legislative session, Louisiana politicians passed a bill to introduce anti-abortion language to the Louisiana State Constitution. Known as Amendment 1, this ballot initiative passed in the 2020 presidential election.

The amendment will add the following to the Louisiana State Constitution: “To protect human life, nothing in present constitution shall be construed to secure or protect a right to abortion or require the funding of abortion.”

While Amendment 1 passed, it does not outlaw abortion in Louisiana. Right now, access remains the same. Abortion is still safe and legal in Louisiana. Abortion providers in Shreveport, Baton Rouge, and New Orleans are still open, and Planned Parenthood Gulf Coast health centers are open to provide sexual and reproductive health care and resources and to connect Louisiana patients with abortion care.

We fought a tough battle in an effort to defeat Amendment 1, and our work was not in vain. We are encouraged that over 775,000 Louisianans voted to protect abortion rights in our state. Throughout this fight, we engaged with many supporters — both old and new. 

We know these are difficult and uncertain times. At PPGC, your health is our number one priority, and that won’t change. We’re right here with you — and we’re in this together. Despite continuing political attacks intended to increase barriers to care, PPGC providers are here for patients, protecting the lives and health of thousands of people and their families in Louisiana. That won’t change.

To help us prepare for future fights, we encourage you to join our Louisiana Rapid Response Team. As a member of this team, you'll effect change on a grassroots level and ensure reproductive rights are a top priority for Louisiana legislators. Join the fight for progressive legislative advances and against extremist, dangerous attacks in the 2021 Legislative Session.