Hi Reader, 

When the government passes a law, who is responsible for tracking unintended consequences? In the case of abortion bans, some states are not only failing to investigate preventable deaths as a result of those bans, but some leaders are actively standing in the way. 

ProPublica has a long history of looking into government actions and their consequences, and we have been investigating this, too. We’ve reported on a number of deaths that experts say were preventable. In September, we uncovered two cases of women in Georgia who died after they couldn’t access timely medical care under the state’s abortion ban. And since October, we have reported on three pregnant Texas women who died after doctors delayed treating miscarriages. There are almost certainly other cases that raise questions about the harm caused by state abortion bans. But panels in states that have recently imposed strict bans on abortion have done little to uncover whether the laws are contributing to maternal deaths.

The consequences of overturning Roe v. Wade are complex, nuanced and varied. Understanding how sweeping changes to reproductive health care access in America are affecting people, institutions and governments will continue to take time. ProPublica is committed to following situations like this, and we’re able to do so because readers like you support our work. Help us continue this critical work by joining us today with your donation of any amount. We’re counting on you to stand with us.

Thanks so much,

Tova Genesen

Proud ProPublican

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