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The news around Nebraska’s abortion laws, and abortion laws across the United States, is evolving daily. If you have any questions about the latest abortion law information, please do not hesitate to call Adoptions With Love.
Are you facing an unplanned pregnancy in Nebraska? You may be feeling stressed and overwhelmed. You may also be asking yourself: ‘What am I going to do? What are the Nebraska abortion laws?’ This is a valid question, as abortion rights in the U.S. have changed dramatically over the past few years. The good news: You have options. There are also resources to help.
In the State of Nebraska, abortion is illegal after the 12th week of pregnancy. The laws were changed after the U.S. Supreme Court reversed its ruling on Roe v. Wade, but the Nebraska abortion laws may change again soon. Residents will be voting on a question regarding abortion in the election this November. If you have an opinion about this and you want your vote to count, register to vote and get out on election day. The most important thing to remember is that you are not alone. You can access safe and legal abortion care, and you have other choices, as well.
If you are considering your pregnancy options, continue reading. In this guide, we will break down all you need to know about abortion laws in Nebraska. We will also share the other options you have as an expectant mother.
Current Abortion Laws in Nebraska
Nebraska abortion laws currently prohibit termination after 12 weeks of pregnancy. The only exceptions to the 12-week ban include cases of rape, incest, or a fatal risk to the birth mother.
Those seeking abortion care must undergo a mandatory 24-hour waiting period, counseling, and have an ultrasound at least one hour before the procedure. The state also prohibits public funding for, and private insurance coverage, of termination procedures.
Nebraska abortion laws also require that a parent, legal guardian, or judge consent to a minor’s abortion.
A Brief History of Nebraska Abortion Laws
In 2010, Nebraska passed a law that banned most abortions 20 weeks after conception or later, with limited exceptions. Many opposed the bill at the time, claiming it was – under Roe v. Wade – unconstitutional.
On May 22, 2023, Nebraska Governor Jim Pellen signed a bill into law banning abortion beyond 12 weeks.
On November 5, 2024, voters will consider two competing abortion amendments on the ballot. One amendment – “Protect the Right to Abortion” – would amend the state’s constitution to read: “All persons shall have the fundamental right to abortion until fetal viability, or when needed to protect the life or health of the pregnant patient.” Fetal viability is usually around 24 weeks of pregnancy.
The other amendment – “Protect Women and Children” – would ban abortion access in the second and third trimesters, except in the case of a medical emergency or in cases of sexual assault or incest.
It is important to vote in this November’s election. Check to make sure you are registered here.
Your Pregnancy Options in Nebraska
If you are considering your pregnancy options, you will want to look at all your choices before making a decision. In Nebraska, you have the following options:
- Parenthood
- Abortion (until 12 weeks, with some exceptions)
- Adoption
Adoptions With Love believes that every expectant/birth mother deserves the right to choose what is best for themselves and their child. If you want to learn more about abortion, Planned Parenthood of Nebraska can be a valuable resource. It is important to understand the risks and side-effects before choosing any medical procedure. Speak with a physician or highly trained healthcare professional about abortion care.
If you do not wish to – or cannot – have an abortion, that is okay, too. There are two other pregnancy options to consider.
Parenthood
It is common to consider parenthood when experiencing pregnancy, even when it is not planned. Parenthood can be a rewarding experience, but it is also a lifelong commitment. Before choosing this path, consider how a child will change your life. Ask yourself critical questions, such as:
- How will I support my growing family?
- Who can I lean on for support?
- How and when will I make time for my own passions?
- Can I offer my child a safe and stable home?
- Can I offer the life they deserve?
These are just a few factors to consider before choosing parenthood.
Adoption
Adoption is not an alternative to abortion, but it can be a positive choice for those not yet ready to parent. While it may not be the right path for everyone, it can offer many benefits to expectant/birth mothers. Choosing adoption is a thoughtful, selfless, and loving decision. If you are considering this choice, you are placing your child’s needs before your own wants to give them a life that you may not be able to provide now.
Making an adoption plan in Nebraska can offer your child a bright and happy future, but it can also offer plenty of positives for your life, as well. With open adoption, making an adoption plan does not mean having to say, “goodbye forever.” It is the beginning of a new chapter.
With adoption, you can choose any type of adoption plan that makes you feel comfortable with and confident in your decision. You can choose between:
With the support of a Nebraska adoption agency, you can select your child’s adoptive family, as well. You can choose to speak with – or meet –the family before making your decision. This often marks the start of several important relationships within the adoption triad. The bond between birth and adoptive families is powerful, as both parties are sharing the love of one precious child.
The best Nebraska adoption agencies offer expectant/birth parents supportive services, free of charge. At Adoptions With Love, anyone planning an adoption has access to the following:
- Housing support. We can cover a deposit and several months of rent.
- Other living expenses, such as utilities, phone bills, transportation, and maternity clothes, as needed.
- Medical care. We can cover any uninsured medical bills related to pregnancy and birth.
- Legal guidance. Our trained adoption attorneys are experienced in adoption in North Carolina and ensure that your adoption goes through safely and legally. They will also take the time to answer your questions and make sure your rights are protected every step of the way.
- Compassionate counseling, before and after the adoption is finalized.
- Ongoing support. We can work with you as you navigate your adoption plan for the many years following the adoption. If you choose a closed adoption, we keep photos and letters on file, should you decide to open the adoption later.
Learn More About Adoption
The right adoption agency in Nebraska will guide you through the adoption process and give compassionate support every step of the way. You do not have to face this unplanned pregnancy alone. A reputable Nebraska adoption agency, such as Adoptions With Love, can offer you an adoption team with lawyers who are experienced in adoption laws in Nebraska and can keep you informed of your rights as a birth parent. You should feel empowered to choose whichever path works best for you, while being treated with respect and compassion.
If you would like to learn more about adoption in Nebraska, contact Adoptions With Love today. We can listen to you and answer any questions you may have, free of obligation or commitment. Call us any time of day, any day of the week at 800-722-7731, text us confidentially at 617-777-0072, or contact us online.