Be Legally Protected

RS 40:1299.35.2
IN LOUISIANA, if you choose to have an abortion, you have rights as a patient! And you have the right to ensure your child’s rights, too.

  • NO ONE can force you to have an abortion – not your parents, not the father of the baby, not the doctor, not anyone! If someone is trying to force you to abort your child, immediately call Crossroads at 985-446-5004 or our national 24-hour help line partner Option Line at 1-800-395-4357.
  • As a minor in Louisiana, you must have signed and notarized parental consent to have an abortion, as provided for in RS 40:1299.35.5
  • YOU must have an ultrasound that confirms viability of the baby at least 2 hours prior to the abortion procedure and before anesthesia. You have the right to view the live ultrasound screen, get a picture of your baby, and receive an explanation of your results, as provided for in RS 40:1299.35.2
  • Any infant who survives an abortion procedure resulting in his or her LIVE birth shall be given immediate medical care as provided in R.S. 40:1299.35.4(C).
  • The abortion clinic must document your informed and voluntary consent, which states that you received complete and accuracte information on your other options at least 24 hours prior to an abortion.
  • You must receive one session of individual, private counseling by a licensed professional, at least 24 hours before the abortion. You are not required to pay any amount for an abortion until after this 24-hour period has expired and you have had time to truly think about the information you received.
  • You will be given a list of nearby places where you can get a free ultrasound before the abortion, as well as a list of places that can help you find resources for your other options, like parenting, adoption, prenatal care, baby needs, and other resources, as provided for in 40:1299.35.6

Anyone who violates these and other state and federal laws can be subject to criminal and civil penalties.