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Downstream effects of post‐Dobbs abortion bans: Birth rates and WIC

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  • Lilly Springer

Abstract

Abortion bans tend to impact the cohorts of women that are eligible for the supplemental nutrition program special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children the most. I use synthetic difference‐in‐differences models and 2017–2023 monthly state‐level data to estimate the change in birth rates and WIC participation that states with total abortion bans experience. States that implemented total abortion bans by the start of 2023 experience a 1.6% increase in the overall birth rate in 2023 and a 4.3% and 2.1% increase in monthly postpartum women and formula‐fed infant WIC participation respectively, leading to a total additional $6.9 million in food costs.

Suggested Citation

  • Lilly Springer, 2026. "Downstream effects of post‐Dobbs abortion bans: Birth rates and WIC," Economic Inquiry, Western Economic Association International, vol. 64(3), pages 830-843, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:ecinqu:v:64:y:2026:i:3:p:830-843
    DOI: 10.1111/ecin.70053
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    References listed on IDEAS

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