Concerns over Georgia's abortion laws took center stage during the Urban Affairs Committee meeting on June 24, 2025, as experts and advocates highlighted the dire implications for maternal health and access to care. Testimonies revealed a troubling landscape where fear and confusion surrounding legal rights are leaving pregnant individuals vulnerable and at risk.

Dr. Anna Newton Levinson, a behavioral scientist, shared alarming data from a helpline indicating that Georgia ranks third in calls related to abortion access, with a significant spike in inquiries noted in January 2025. She emphasized that even those eligible for exceptions under the law face significant barriers, often waiting until their health is critically endangered before receiving necessary care.

One poignant case involved a woman named Mary, whose life-threatening heart condition during pregnancy was acknowledged by her medical team. Despite this, she was unable to secure the required certification for a termination, leaving her in a precarious situation. Dr. Levinson's research revealed that many women, including those experiencing emergencies, are forced to navigate a complex and often dangerous healthcare system, leading to increased maternal morbidity and mortality.

The meeting also addressed the chilling effect of criminalization on healthcare providers. Experts warned that the fear of legal repercussions is driving many physicians away from obstetrics and gynecology, exacerbating an already critical shortage of maternal healthcare professionals in Georgia.

Senator Sonia Halpern, vice chair of the committee, underscored the importance of recognizing the multifaceted challenges women face during pregnancy, noting that the current laws do not adequately account for the complexities of individual cases. The testimonies painted a stark picture of a healthcare environment where pregnant individuals are left to manage potentially life-threatening situations without adequate support or clarity.

As the committee continues to grapple with these issues, the testimonies serve as a call to action for lawmakers to reconsider the implications of restrictive abortion laws on maternal health and to prioritize the well-being of families across Georgia.