Wellspring Health Access, the only abortion clinic in Wyoming, is set to resume providing both medication and procedural abortions following a judicial decision to temporarily block two state laws that had restricted its operations.
The ruling came Monday from retired District Judge Thomas T.C. Campbell, who granted a preliminary injunction in an ongoing lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the new abortion regulations. The laws in question mandated that abortion providers meet outpatient surgical center standards and required patients to undergo an ultrasound before receiving abortion medication.
Wellspring Health Access, which had ceased abortion services on February 28—one day after the licensing law was signed by Governor Mark Gordon—can now offer its full range of reproductive health services. Clinic founder Julie Burkhart confirmed the immediate return of services and called the ruling a significant moment for patients seeking care in Wyoming.
The lawsuit, filed by Wellspring along with advocacy group Chelsea’s Fund and several individuals, argues that the regulations infringe upon the right to make personal healthcare decisions, a right explicitly outlined in Wyoming’s Constitution since a 2012 amendment.
In his order, Judge Campbell echoed a prior ruling by Teton County Judge Melissa Owens, stating that abortion qualifies as a fundamental healthcare decision protected under the state’s constitution. He found the state’s arguments in support of the laws unconvincing and wrote that the measures lacked clear justification related to patient safety or compelling government interest.
Specifically, Campbell questioned why the mandatory ultrasound law would apply only to women seeking abortions and not to all pregnant individuals, raising concerns about selective application. He also criticized the 48-hour waiting period, calling it unsupported by evidence and serving no legitimate medical purpose.
The law requiring surgical center compliance posed particular burdens for Wellspring, according to court filings. The clinic argued that upgrades necessary to meet the standards would require significant renovations and resources, a point the judge acknowledged in his ruling.
The ultrasound law, though not as operationally disruptive, led Wellspring to pause medication abortions due to potential legal risks. Governor Gordon initially vetoed the measure, citing concerns for individuals facing abuse or health complications, but the legislature voted to override that veto in early March.
Campbell’s injunction halts enforcement of both laws while litigation continues. A final decision in the case is expected in the coming months, but no timeline for further hearings has been set.
In the meantime, abortion remains legal in Wyoming. The state’s highest court is also reviewing a separate case involving earlier abortion bans, including the nation’s first explicit prohibition on abortion pills. A lower court struck down those laws in November, citing the same constitutional amendment that underpins the current lawsuit.
Supporters of abortion access see Campbell’s ruling as an affirmation of constitutional rights, while opponents argue that the clinic should demonstrate safety by complying with the laws.
Despite the ongoing legal battles, Wellspring has remained open, continuing to offer hormone therapy and patient consultations. The clinic opened in 2023 after overcoming delays, including significant damage from an arson attack. Now, with abortion services resuming, its staff and advocates say they are prepared to continue defending access to care.
“This is our time to fight for justice for our patients in Wyoming,” said Burkhart, expressing gratitude for the court’s decision.
Cowboy State Daily, Wyoming Public Media, the Guardian, and CNN contributed to this report.
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