Wyoming has enacted new legislation restricting abortions once a fetal heartbeat is detected, following a court decision that struck down the state’s previous near-total abortion ban. Republican Governor Mark Gordon signed House Bill 126 after it passed with strong support in the legislature, including a 51-7 vote in the House and 27-4 in the Senate.
Pro-life advocates welcomed the measure. Carol Tobias, president of National Right to Life, stated, “We thank Governor Gordon for signing this vital law. Wyoming’s action reflects an ongoing national conversation about how our laws should recognize the humanity of the unborn child while ensuring that her mother receives appropriate care.”
The Wyoming Supreme Court had previously ruled that the earlier ban violated constitutional protections for individual health care decisions. Supporters argue the new law is structured to withstand legal scrutiny while acknowledging the state’s interest in protecting unborn life. The law also establishes penalties for violations and includes requirements related to ultrasounds and parental consent for minors.
