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In response to changing attitudes, some states began to repeal restrictive abortion laws. Colorado was first, in 1967: it decriminalised abortion in cases of rape, incest or where pregnancy would be harmful. Similar laws were passed in other states. Hawaii was the first to legalise abortion on request, in 1970.

By 1973, 30 states still banned abortion in all circumstances, 16 permitted it in special circumstances, in three states it was legal for residents. In New York it was generally legal.