Barriers to Abortion Access in Minnesota
Abortion is legal in Minnesota, and we're fortunate to have protections that many other states do not. But legality doesn't always mean accessibility. For many people—especially those in rural areas, low-income communities, or communities of color—there are still significant barriers that make getting abortion care difficult, delayed, or even out of reach.
One of the biggest challenges is geography. Most abortion providers in Minnesota are located in the Twin Cities. That means people in Greater Minnesota often have to travel several hours to reach a clinic. That distance can be a serious obstacle for someone without reliable transportation, paid time off work, or money for gas and lodging. And for people with children, finding and paying for childcare adds even more complexity.
The cost of care is another major issue. Depending on how far along a pregnancy is and the type of procedure, abortion can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars. While Minnesota's public health insurance (Medical Assistance) does cover abortion in most cases, not everyone qualifies for it, and private insurance doesn't always help. Many people have to pay out of pocket, which isn't possible for those living paycheck to paycheck.
Legal requirements can also make abortion more complicated to access. Minnesota law requires that people receive certain state-mandated information from a provider at least 24 hours before their appointment. This creates unnecessary delays and forces some patients to make multiple long trips to the clinic. Young people under 18 must notify both parents or go through a court process to get permission—a step that can be confusing, intimidating, or unsafe in some family situations.
On top of the practical barriers, there are emotional and social ones. The stigma around abortion is still strong. Many worry about being judged by friends, family, or their community. Others face misinformation from so-called "crisis pregnancy centers"—fake clinics that pretend to offer healthcare but try to pressure people out of choosing abortion. These places can be profoundly misleading and harmful, especially to people who are unsure or scared.
Language and cultural barriers are also real. Not all clinics offer interpretation services or materials in multiple languages. For immigrants, Indigenous people, and BIPOC communities, there may also be a history of discrimination or distrust toward the healthcare system, which can make accessing abortion feel even more difficult or unsafe.
All of these challenges stack up—especially for those who are already navigating poverty, racism, or other forms of injustice. When we talk about access, we have to look beyond whether abortion is legal. Proper access means ensuring people have the resources, support, and freedom to make the best decisions—without barriers, judgment, or delay.
At Pro-Choice Minnesota, we believe everyone should be able to get the care they need with dignity and respect. That's why we're working daily to break down these barriers—through policy, community organizing, and direct support—so that reproductive freedom is a reality for all Minnesotans, not just a privilege for some.