Abortion laws in Rhode Island
Abortion is allowed in Rhode Island until viability, about 24 weeks of pregnancy.
Data last updated .
How far into pregnancy
- Abortion is banned once the fetus could survive outside the uterus ("viability"), about 24 weeks of pregnancy.
- Pregnancy is counted from the first day of your last period, not from conception.
- Exceptions after that point: to save your life; to protect your health, including mental health.
Waiting periods and clinic visits
- There is no required waiting period, and you can get care in one visit.
Abortion pills by telehealth
- You can get abortion pills through a telehealth (video or online) visit, with no in-person visit needed.
- Providers in this state can also prescribe abortion pills by telehealth to people in other states.
If you're under 18
- If you're under 18, a parent or legal guardian must give permission.
- If you can't involve a parent, you can ask a judge for permission instead. This is called a judicial bypass, and free legal help is available.
Insurance coverage
- Medicaid (public health insurance) pays for abortion.
Penalties and legal risk
- Doctors and other licensed providers who violate the ban can lose their license or face other discipline.
- For advice about your own situation, the Repro Legal Helpline offers free, confidential legal help.
Legal protections
- State law protects the right to abortion.
- Good to know: The Rhode Island Constitution includes equal protection language, but it specifies that it does not grant any right relating to abortion.
Get help
- Find a provider near you: AbortionFinder
- Find verified clinics: I Need an A
- Free, confidential legal help: Repro Legal Helpline · 844-868-2812
- Help paying for care: National Abortion Federation Hotline · 1-800-772-9100
- Medical questions about abortion or miscarriage: M+A Hotline · 1-833-246-2632
This is a summary of state law, not legal advice. Laws change, and an update to this data can also be a correction.