Abortion Laws In Colorado 2026: What You Need To Know

Colorado has some of the strongest abortion protections in America. The state allows abortion at all stages of pregnancy without time limits. In 2024, voters made this protection even stronger by adding it to the state constitution. This guide will help you understand Colorado’s current abortion laws and what they mean for you.

What Is Legal About Abortion in Colorado?

Abortion is completely legal in Colorado. There are no gestational limits on when you can have an abortion. This means you can legally have an abortion at any point during pregnancy.

Colorado enacted a statutory protection for abortion as a fundamental right in 2022. In 2024, voters approved Amendment 79, which added the right to abortion to the Colorado Constitution and removed a ban on using public funds for abortion care.

The law protects your right to make your own reproductive health decisions. It also protects your right to use or refuse birth control.

Basic Abortion Laws

No Time Limits

Colorado does not restrict abortion based on how far along a patient is in their pregnancy. This makes Colorado one of only nine states with no gestational limits.

You can have an abortion during any trimester of pregnancy. The decision is between you and your doctor.

No Waiting Periods

Colorado does not impose waiting periods or mandatory counseling requirements for abortion. You can receive care as soon as you consult with a provider.

Some states require you to wait 24 to 72 hours after your first visit. Colorado does not have these rules.

Provider Requirements

Licensed physicians, regulated by the Colorado Medical Board, are authorized to provide abortion services. The state follows standard medical licensing requirements.

Colorado does not require special training or hospital privileges for abortion providers. This is different from some states that have stricter rules.

Parental Notification for Minors

The Basic Rule

Colorado requires parental notification for minors seeking abortions. No abortion can be performed on an unemancipated minor until at least 48 hours after written notice is delivered to a parent.

The notice must be delivered to your parent’s home address. It can be delivered by your doctor, a sheriff, a clergy member, or another adult over 18.

Who Counts as a Parent

If you don’t live with your parents, the notice can be given to a relative you live with instead. This includes grandparents, aunts, uncles, or legal guardians.

Exceptions to Parental Notification

You do not need parental notification if you are emancipated. This includes minors who are at least 15 years old, don’t live with parents, and financially support themselves. Married minors are also considered emancipated.

Judicial Bypass Option

A judge can approve a minor’s petition without parental notification. This is called judicial bypass.

Recent research shows the judicial bypass process can be stressful and may delay care. However, it provides an option for minors who cannot safely tell their parents.

Insurance Coverage

Private Insurance

Starting in January 2025, private health insurance plans in Colorado must fully cover abortion care without copays. The law also covers medication abortions and contraception.

There is an exception for employers who have religious objections to abortion coverage.

Public Coverage

Beginning in 2025, state employees and people on Medicaid will have abortion care covered by their insurance. This change happened after voters approved Amendment 79 in 2024.

State analysts estimated the cost at nearly $5.9 million in the first full fiscal year, but found it would actually reduce costs overall.

Penalties and Consequences

For Patients

There are no penalties for women who have abortions in Colorado. The law protects your right to make this decision.

For Providers

Providers who violate Colorado’s abortion restrictions may face civil penalties. However, Colorado’s restrictions are minimal compared to other states.

Providers must follow standard medical licensing requirements and report certain information to the state.

Special Circumstances

Emergency Care

Colorado protects your right to emergency abortion care. This includes situations where your life or health is at risk.

The state has laws to ensure you can get emergency care even if you’re pregnant.

Out-of-State Patients

Colorado has comprehensive shield laws that protect providers and patients from out-of-state investigations. This is especially important for people traveling from states with abortion bans.

The laws protect out-of-state patients who come to Colorado for care and the providers who treat them.

Late-Term Abortion Access

Colorado is one of only a few states with clinics that provide abortion care throughout pregnancy, including the third trimester. Outpatient abortion is available up to 26 weeks. Medically indicated termination up to term is available for conditions like fetal anomalies or severe medical problems.

How to Access Abortion Care

Finding a Provider

Colorado has abortion clinics throughout the state. You can also receive care from licensed physicians in medical offices.

The state allows telemedicine for abortion consultations and medication abortion.

What to Expect

You will need to give informed consent under standard medical guidelines. Your doctor will provide medically accurate information about the procedure and any risks.

Colorado does not require biased counseling or misleading information that some other states mandate.

If You’re Under 18

Remember that you will need to comply with parental notification laws unless you qualify for an exception. Plan for the 48-hour waiting period after notification.

Consider talking to a trusted adult if you cannot tell your parents. You can also explore the judicial bypass option.

Recent Changes and Updates

2024 Constitutional Amendment

Amendment 79 passed with about 62% of the vote in November 2024. This constitutional protection makes it much harder for future lawmakers to restrict abortion access.

2025 Legislation

In April 2025, Governor Polis signed laws implementing Amendment 79 and strengthening shield law protections. These laws expanded protection for providers and patients.

Current Legal Challenges

In July 2025, an abortion provider filed a lawsuit challenging Colorado’s parental notification law. The lawsuit argues that parental notification discriminates against young people’s right to abortion under Amendment 79.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is abortion legal in Colorado at any stage of pregnancy?

Yes, abortion is legal up to 40 weeks of gestation in Colorado. Amendment 79 made abortion a constitutional right.

Do I need my parents’ permission if I’m under 18?

No, you don’t need permission. You need notification, which means your parents must be told 48 hours before the procedure. You can get a court order to skip this requirement.

Does insurance cover abortion in Colorado?

Yes. Private insurance must cover abortion starting in 2025. Medicaid and state employee insurance will also cover abortion.

Can I get an abortion pill by mail in Colorado?

Colorado allows telemedicine for abortion care, including medication abortion. Your provider will explain what options are available to you.

Are there any waiting periods in Colorado?

No. Colorado does not require waiting periods between your consultation and your abortion.

Can people from other states get abortions in Colorado?

Yes. Colorado’s shield laws protect out-of-state patients and their providers from legal action by other states.

What if I can’t afford an abortion?

Colorado has abortion funds that help people pay for care. Medicaid will also cover abortion starting in 2025.

Final Thoughts

Colorado strongly protects abortion rights at all stages of pregnancy. The state’s laws prioritize your safety and your right to make your own reproductive decisions. Whether you live in Colorado or are traveling from another state, you can access safe and legal abortion care.

If you’re under 18, understand the parental notification requirements and your options for exceptions. Remember that these laws exist to protect you and ensure you get quality medical care.

Colorado continues to strengthen its abortion protections as other states restrict access. The 2024 constitutional amendment ensures these protections will be difficult to change in the future.