Idaho Signs Bill That Prevents Minors Travelling For Abortion Without Parents Consent

Idaho Governor Brad Little has signed into law House Bill 242, which makes it a felony to help a minor travel to another state for an abortion or obtain an abortion-inducing drug without the consent of a parent or guardian.

The law will take effect next month, but it is likely to face legal challenges from groups such as Planned Parenthood, which has called the legislation harmful.

The law allows an affirmative defense to prosecution if a parent or guardian of the minor consented to the travel, but some lawmakers have raised concerns about the lack of clarity around who qualifies as a parent.

Boise family law attorney Johnathan Baldauf has said that the law could result in legal chaos, as it does not define the term “parent.”

The law’s sponsor, Republican Representative Barbara Ehardt, has said that the legislation is needed to prevent the trafficking of minors.