On  April 1, the Florida Supreme Court approved a strict six-week abortion ban to take effect after 30 days.

Following the overturning of Roe v. Wade, states were given the right to make their own laws regarding abortion access. Many Southern states including Indiana, Kentucky and West Virginia have imposed a ban on all or almost all abortions.

Florida resident Anya Cook almost died after she was denied an abortion under the Sunshine State’s existing 15-week ban in 2022. 

“Run, because you have no help here,” Cook said according to The Washington Post.

Prior to Gov. Ron DeSantis’ assumption of office, Florida had a reputation as a refuge for women seeking abortions throughout the South due to its limited restrictions, making the ruling even more controversial.

In a separate ruling, the Florida Supreme Court approved a potential constitutional amendment that would protect the right to an abortion. This will appear as “Amendment 4” on the November ballot and, if passed, will undo both bans.