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episode 124: Texas Abortion Restrictions, Medicated Abortions, and Reproduction Rights in a Post-Roe US
In June, 2022 the U.S. Supreme Court delivered an historic and far reaching decision overturning Roe v. Wade and turning abortion law to the states. Less than two years on, we are seeing just how that decision is playing out as women navigate a divided country with a patchwork of reproductive rights. The recent example of Kate Cox, a Dallas-area mother of two who sought to have a medical exemption from Texas’ strict abortion laws and was forced to leave the state to receive the care she needed when her request was denied, brought the consequences of the Court’s decision to the headlines. In this episode we hear from the show’s co-host Pam Karlan, an expert in reproductive law, about the Texas case and reproductive rights in the US after Roe was overturned.
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Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Rich Ford introduces the episode and highlights the significant changes in abortion laws over recent years.
(00:01:08) Current Legal Context
Pam Karlan provides an overview of the legal landscape since the Dobbs case decision and summarizes the changes and confusion it has led to.
(00:05:00) Texas Abortion Controversy: Kate Cox Case
Focus on the case of Kate Cox, a woman in Texas seeking abortion due to fetal health complications. Analysis of the legal, political, and ethical implications of the verdict.
(00:10:02) Impact of Returning Abortion Laws to States
The misconception that returning abortion decisions to states would reduce controversy. Analysis of attempts to to restrict travel for abortion services.
(00:12:20) Legal Ramifications and Political Scenarios
Discussion on potential legal consequences for aiding abortion travel and comparisons with state laws regarding child-related travel. Contemplation of federal abortion bans utilizing the Commerce Clause and the potential scenarios for imposing such bans.
(00:14:48) Medical Abortions and Legal Challenges
Insights into the rise of medical abortions and the controversy surrounding the approval and distribution of drugs, and subsequent legal battles.
(00:20:20) State Politics, Abortion Laws & State Referendum Dynamics
Exploration of the shifting dynamics in state politics, including red states' stances on protecting abortion rights, and measures in California & Ohio.
(00:22:56) Shifting Political Narratives
Discussion on the evolving focus of the abortion debate, and examination of how abortion politics are playing out in national and state elections, influencing political strategies.
(00:24:59) Federal Legislation Prospects and Responsive Activism
The potential for federal legislation protecting or banning abortion rights & insights into citizen activism both aiding and impeding abortion access.
(00:28:18) Abortion in Unlikely Arenas
Examples showcasing how abortion politics infiltrate seemingly unrelated areas, affecting military promotions and governmental functionality.