The 2024 presidential election marks a turning point for reproductive healthcare policy in the United States. With the election of Donald Trump, a shift in approach toward reproductive rights could be forthcoming. Although the full details of the administration’s policy intentions remain to be seen, the new leadership will likely influence key areas such as abortion access, contraceptive coverage, and employer-sponsored health benefits.
Here’s an analysis of what may be impacted based on recent trends and the results of recent state-level ballot initiatives.
1. Abortion Access: Federal Support and State-Level Impact
Federal policy on abortion access has been a topic of significant debate, and this election may bring a renewed focus on the issue. Recent state ballot measures reveal mixed support for reproductive rights across the nation, highlighting a diverse landscape. Seven states, including Arizona, Colorado, Maryland, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, and New York, passed measures to protect or expand abortion access:
- Arizona: Proposition 139 establishes a constitutional right to abortion, preventing state interference before fetal viability. Passage means Arizona will protect a woman’s right to terminate pregnancy through fetal viability – roughly nine weeks beyond the state’s current 15-week ban.
- Colorado: Amendment 79 added the right to abortion to the state constitution, also mandating coverage under certain insurance plans.
- Maryland: Question 1 enshrines reproductive rights in the state constitution.
- Missouri: Amendment 3 overturns the state’s near-total abortion ban by establishing reproductive rights in the constitution.
- Montana: Ballot Issue 14 grants the right to make reproductive decisions, including abortion.
- Nevada: Question 6 was approved but will require a second vote in 2026 to be constitutional.
- New York: Proposal 1 adds reproductive healthcare and autonomy as protected classes under the state constitution.
Conversely, similar initiatives failed in Florida, Nebraska, and South Dakota:
- Florida: Amendment 4 fell short of the 60% required to pass, leaving the six-week abortion ban intact.
- Nebraska: Voters approved restrictions after the first trimester while rejecting a broader abortion rights measure.
- South Dakota: Amendment G, which sought to establish abortion rights, was not approved.
These outcomes demonstrate ongoing regional divides and emphasize the importance of state-level protections, especially in states supportive of expanded access.
2. Contraceptive Coverage: Growing Demand for Affordable Access
Access to affordable contraception continues to be a public health priority. According to a recent Kaiser Family Foundation survey, 72% of Americans support mandatory contraceptive coverage by employers. Currently, around 24% of women aged 18-49 report challenges in accessing affordable birth control, especially in underserved areas—a gap advocates hope to see addressed, even as federal policy specifics remain undetermined.
Regardless of federal policy direction, we anticipate continued advocacy for affordable contraceptive access, particularly in regions where services are limited. Organizations and health advocates are expected to push for expanded funding for family planning services to close these accessibility gaps.
3. Employer-Sponsored Health Benefits: Compliance and Access Implications
For employers, changes in reproductive healthcare policy could impact the scope of health benefits, especially regarding reproductive care coverage. The current Affordable Care Act provisions mandate certain reproductive health services, but new compliance requirements may emerge depending on federal policy direction.
Currently, 68% of large employers provide reproductive health coverage, according to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). This coverage is expected to remain a priority, as organizations aim to retain talent by addressing the reproductive health needs of employees. State ballot measures that passed may prompt employers in these regions to update coverage in alignment with new state-level protections.
What’s Next for Reproductive Care Policy
While specific policies from the new administration are still forthcoming, state-level actions reveal a complex and evolving landscape. States that have passed protections for reproductive rights show a growing commitment to preserving access for residents, while states rejecting similar measures highlight ongoing regional differences. As the new administration takes office, the importance of state-level advocacy and protections will remain essential in determining the accessibility of reproductive services.
The 2024 election’s impact on reproductive rights highlights the need to monitor changes in healthcare policies that may affect individuals and employers nationwide. As these developments unfold, advocates and policymakers alike will navigate a shifting environment, working to balance access and affordability in reproductive care across the United States.
At Stork Club, we’re hopeful that the new administration will bring leadership and support to close gaps in reproductive care, ensuring the health of future generations while reducing maternal mortality and helping parents thrive as they build their families and careers. Stork Club is here to provide tools and support for all reproductive care goals at any life stage for all ages and genders.
