Politics & Government

Frey's Executive Order Makes Minneapolis 'Safe Haven' For Abortion

Mayor Jacob Frey said he will "make sure Minneapolis is and will always be a safe haven for anyone seeking an abortion."

A clinic escort outside WE Health Clinic in Duluth, Minn., awaits the arrival of patients, Thursday, July 7, 2022. The clinic escorts protect patients from protesters as they approach and enter the clinic.
A clinic escort outside WE Health Clinic in Duluth, Minn., awaits the arrival of patients, Thursday, July 7, 2022. The clinic escorts protect patients from protesters as they approach and enter the clinic. (AP Photo/Derek Montgomery)

MINNEAPOLIS — Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey Wednesday signed an executive order making the city a "safe haven" for abortion.

Specifically, Executive Order 2022-01 prohibits city of Minneapolis staff and departments from complying with states pursuing legal action against women seeking an abortion in the city.

Five of the seven total abortion clinics in Minnesota are located in or near Minneapolis.

Find out what's happening in Southwest Minneapolisfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

"We will do everything in our power to make sure Minneapolis is and will always be a safe haven for anyone seeking an abortion," said Frey in a statement.

"We continue to work with local jurisdictions, experts, and advocates to expand support for reproductive rights – and to see how best each of our resources can be used. Whether you’re a Minneapolis resident or someone traveling half the country over to get basic healthcare, you will be protected in our city."

Find out what's happening in Southwest Minneapolisfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Of its immediate neighbors, the state of Minnesota has by far the most liberal abortion laws. As a result, the state has become an abortion destination following the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling.

Meanwhile, North and South Dakota have near-complete abortion bans that are set to take effect following the Supreme Court decision. Iowa and Wisconsin already have laws on the books that ban abortion.

"This action makes our position clear," said City Council Vice President Linea Palmisano. “Minneapolis is committed to protecting all those seeking an abortion in our city.”

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