Roe v. Wade is Overturned: What’s Next for Indiana?
On Friday, June 24 the Supreme Court of the United States voted to overturn the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision in Dobbs v. Jackson. The majority opinion held that “[T]he Constitution does not confer a right to abortion.” All five bishops in Indiana issued statements in the wake of the decision, both praising the decision and reaffirming the Church’s commitment to caring for women and families in need. The Dobbs decision, as the statement from the Diocese of Lafayette-in-Indiana recognizes, allows states “to legislate for or against procuring abortion”.
The Indiana General Assembly will meet on Monday, July 25 for a special session. While the original purpose of the special session was to approve $1 billion in inflation relief to Hoosiers, the Governor and legislative leadership have clearly signaled their intent to pass legislation to restrict abortion and support mothers while voting to approve inflation relief. The multi-week session will hold many challenges, and during that time we need to share the Church’s unique voice in defense of the truth of the human person and with charity toward those who disagree.
As the special session kicks off, and in the days leading up to the session, Catholics and all people of good will in Indiana have an opportunity to share their voice with legislators through an action alert. The Church recognizes that further protecting preborn life should also be accompanied by a strengthening of support for women and families in need. If you’re interested in learning about developments as they happen and would like to hear about how you can help bring the Church’s voice to the Statehouse, sign up to receive action alerts and emails during the special session.
Frequently Asked Questions
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While many states already have old laws restricting abortion or “trigger bans” that restricted abortion immediately after the Dobbs decision, Indiana will not have an abortion ban until it is voted on by the General Assembly and signed by the Governor. The Indiana Constitution prevents the state from passing a law that is dependent on some outside force (such as a Supreme Court decision).
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The Sisters of Life and the McGrath Institute teamed up to create a 12 part video series “Into Life”. Journey with the Sisters of Life as they explain what it means to walk with a woman who is pregnant and vulnerable. Learn what it means to deeply listen to and understand the heart of another, how to rejoice in the beauty of the individual person, and what it means to truly accompany someone into God’s life and freedom. Into Life Series
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Each Indiana diocese has a web page with more information about resources currently available for pregnant women. Beyond the resources offered in the list, any Catholic parish in the state of Indiana will accompany women in need, or at the very least, offer referrals to local resources.
Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend
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You can use this tool to contact your legislator.
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While we have yet to see official draft language, we expect the bill to ban abortion while allowing procedures intended to save the life of the mother.
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While legislators have signaled a desire to expand resources for women and families, we do not yet know which specific proposals will be seriously considered. Stay tuned for further communications, as well as for a forthcoming statement from Indiana’s bishops outlining the Church’s priorities.
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Follow our updates and encourage others to sign up and make their voice heard throughout the session.