Minister proposes changes to Jersey’s abortion law

Proposed changes to the law by a Jersey minister would remove residency restrictions for women seeking an abortion in the island.

Currently, women either have to be from the island, or live in Jersey for at least 90 days, before they are eligible for an abortion.

The proposed changes, lodged by the minister for Health and Social Service, would mean a woman would only need to be present for the prior consultations and the termination of the pregnancy.

The current fees are £185 for someone who is entitled to healthcare in Jersey, with some exemptions, and £511 for someone who is not entitled to healthcare in the island. The proposal will be debated by States members at the earliest of 21 January 2025.