"Crisis Pregnancy Centers: A Growing Presence Surpassing Abortion Clinics"
Crisis pregnancy centers (CPCs) outnumber abortion providers in Illinois by nearly three to one, according to an analysis by WBEZ. The state has 42 counties with CPCs but no in-person abortion providers, while only 12 counties have abortion providers. CPCs, often run by anti-abortion or religious organizations, offer pregnancy-related services but do not provide or refer patients for abortions. Critics accuse CPCs of using misinformation to dissuade patients from seeking abortions. In July, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker signed a law allowing lawsuits against CPCs for deceptive practices, but a federal judge has temporarily halted its enforcement. The disparity in access to abortion care highlights the need for comprehensive reproductive healthcare services in local communities.