Mass. abortion rights advocates say N.H. restrictions could drive more patients into Bay State

Abortion rights advocates in Massachusetts are concerned the state may see an increase in out-of-state patients because of more restrictive policies in New Hampshire.

A new law took effect at the beginning of the year in New Hampshire banning abortions after 24 weeks of pregnancy. It also makes ultrasounds mandatory before the procedure, and makes it possible for doctors who perform abortions to face criminal charges.

Rebecca Hart Holder, director of the group Reproductive Equity Now, says New Hampshire legislators are considering even more restrictions.

"Which could be making folks concerned about their ability to access care in New Hampshire and make them think, 'If it's easy to get over the border to Massachusetts, I'll just go there for the care,' " she tells WBUR.

There is already some anecdotal evidence of out-of-state arrivals for abortion services, Hart Holder says. Some Texas patients have traveled to Massachusetts after Texas state legislators passed the controversial abortion bill known as SB 8 last year.

The bill bans abortions after six weeks of pregnancy, when many women do not yet know they are pregnant.

Massachusetts has the right to an abortion codified into law and allows the procedure after 24 weeks in some cases.