New economic research shows abortion bans are not just shaping health care — they are reshaping housing markets and influencing where Americans choose to live.

A National Bureau of Economic Research study found that states with abortion bans saw rental prices decline by 2.2% and vacancies rise by 1.1% compared to similar states without bans. Researchers described the effect as economically meaningful and statistically significant.

That trend reflects real families making painful decisions.

Kayla Smith lived in Idaho for more than a decade. In 2022, while 18 weeks pregnant, she learned the fetus had fatal anomalies. Idaho’s abortion ban had just taken effect and does not include an exception for fatal fetal anomalies. Unsure whether she could receive care — and facing costs exceeding $10,000 — she and her family traveled to Washington state for medical treatment.

Later, when she became pregnant again, she and her husband wrestled with a question no family should have to ask: Was it safe to remain in Idaho? Ultimately, they sold their home and moved out of state.

Stories like this matter — not only for the families involved, but for Idaho’s future. When residents feel they must leave to access health care or to feel secure during pregnancy, it impacts our workforce, our housing market, our businesses, and our communities.

This petition calls on the Idaho State Legislature and Governor Brad Little to evaluate and reform Idaho’s abortion laws to ensure that families facing severe medical complications have clear, compassionate access to care. Idaho’s policies should protect both lives and livelihoods.

Regardless of political affiliation, we all want Idaho to be a state where families can thrive, doctors can practice with clarity, and communities remain strong.

Idaho’s economic stability and community future depend on it. Sign this petition to urge state leaders to act.