Ohio Judge Blocks 24-Hour Abortion Wait Period

A Franklin County judge's recent ruling has temporarily blocked Ohio's 24-hour waiting period for abortions, allowing clinics to offer same-day services. Judge David Young's decision follows a constitutional amendment approved by voters in November 2023 that guarantees abortion access. Planned Parenthood and other clinics have already begun adapting to this change, with same-day services expected to roll out across the state. Abortion rights advocates argue that the waiting period posed unnecessary barriers, particularly for low-income patients, while opponents assert it provided essential reflection time. The ruling has paused multiple requirements, including the provision of state-approved informational materials to patients. The Ohio Attorney General's office plans to appeal the decision.