The number of abortions performed in Florida dropped by over 12,000 in 2024 following the implementation of the state’s 6-week abortion ban in 2023.
According to data from the Guttmacher Institute, approximately 73,710 abortions occurred in Florida in 2024, compared to 85,770 the previous year. The new law prohibits most abortions after six weeks of pregnancy.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed the bill, known as the ‘heartbeat law’ in April 2023. A legal challenge to the state's prior 15-week abortion restriction, filed by Planned Parenthood in 2022, was ultimately rejected by the Florida Supreme Court, clearing the path for the stricter 6-week ban to take effect.
A proposed constitutional amendment that sought to overturn Florida’s abortion restrictions was defeated by voters in a November 2024 ballot initiative.
The significant drop in the number of abortions taking place in Florida shows what can be achieved when pro-life laws are introduced. It’s an important lesson as other states in the US adjust to the aftermath of the Dobbs Supreme Court decision in 2022 that overturned Roe v Wade, the 1973 court decision that legalised abortion across the US. The drop in abortions in Florida didn’t only come about as a result of the law changing. Stepping up and ensuring that more practical supports are in place for women experiencing an unplanned pregnancy also played an important part.