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Indiana passes the first involuntary sterilization law in the U.S.

1907

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Indiana becomes the first state to pass an involuntary sterilization law. This empowers state institutions to sterilize, without consent, criminals and “imbeciles” whose condition is “pronounced unimprovable” by a panel of physicians. Many states will soon follow in enacting involuntary sterilization laws directed at those deemed "burdens" on society, including people who are "mentally ill," epileptics, and "criminals." Because most statutes mandate sterilization only for people confined to state institutions, they are imposed primarily against the poor. There will be many state by state laws that follow after this one.