Iowa’s near-total abortion ban is in effect. Nonetheless, Iowans are still getting abortions. It’s just harder and more expensive, often requiring travel outside the state.

On this episode of Cornhole Champions, hosts Zachary Oren Smith speaks with Iowa Abortion Access Fund's Lyz Lenz about the crisis unfolding six months after Iowa's six-week abortion ban took effect. Since July 2024, the number of Iowans needing abortion funding has tripled, with hundreds forced to travel to Illinois, Nebraska, Minnesota, and Kansas for care. Lenz argues that while the ban hasn't stopped abortions, it has made them more expensive, delayed, and dangerous.

Then get some facts on the abortion pill mifepristone, the newest target of Iowa Republicans’ crusade against reproductive rights.

[Show note: Amie Rivers and I are out of town this week for work so the sound quality on this one is a little different. We’ll be back to normal next week.]

Guests:

* Mica Chase is a resident of Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

* Dr. Sarah Traxler is the chief medical officer for Planned Parenthood North Central States.

* Lyz Lenz is the chair of the board of directors at the Iowa Abortion Access Fund.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cornholechampions.substack.com

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