Women’s reproductive rights and workplace protections continue to face mounting restrictions across the United States, with policy shifts at both the federal and state levels raising concerns about economic stability and personal autonomy.
As of 2025, women’s rights are expected to be increasingly limited, with former President Donald Trump pushing for the implementation of Project 2025, a conservative policy agenda that includes removing references to “abortion,” “reproductive health,” and “sexual and reproductive rights” from federal regulations, contracts, and grants. Critics argue that these changes could significantly roll back reproductive freedoms nationwide.
While there is no federal law banning abortion, state-level restrictions continue to tighten. Indiana, for example, has enacted one of the strictest abortion laws in the country, allowing exceptions only in cases of rape, incest, or when the mother’s life is at risk. Indiana Gov. Mike Braun defended the state’s stance, stating, “All I’m trying to do is just make sure that our laws are enforced according to what the Legislature put out there.”
Advocates warn that limiting access to reproductive healthcare has far-reaching consequences, particularly for younger women, low-income individuals, and teenagers. Without the ability to make choices about their reproductive health, they face increased risks of poverty, limited career opportunities, and reduced access to essential healthcare. The strain extends beyond individuals, placing pressure on public resources and contributing to higher child poverty rates.
In addition to reproductive rights, workplace protections for women could also face setbacks. Trump previously signed executive orders rolling back diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies in the federal government and encouraging the private sector to do the same. Critics argue that weakening DEI initiatives could widen the gender pay gap, reduce representation in leadership, and create less inclusive workplace environments.
As these policy shifts continue, advocates stress the need for continued efforts to protect women’s rights and ensure economic and social stability for future generations.
