Dobbs decision likely to enhance Washington's abortion haven status
In late October 2021, the pro-choice research organization the Guttmacher Institute predicted a 385% increase in demand for abortion in Washington state based on Roe being overturned.
According to Guttmacher, the overturning of Roe could mean as many as 230,000 women from Idaho, where abortion access is going to be more limited, may drive to Washington to get an abortion.
Ferguson indicated he would defend the Evergreen State’s status as an abortion sanctuary for out-of-state women seeking the procedure.
“Moreover, I will use my authority to ensure Washington welcomes any individual who comes here to access the fundamental right to reproductive justice,” he said. “I am already working to protect medical professionals who are prosecuted in other states for providing essential health care services that are legal and protected in Washington.”
Washington has a history of abortion rights going back more than 50 years.