In 1969, a law was passed to regulate abortion under the Criminal Code. It permitted a qualified medical practioner to perform an abortion, if prior approval was obtained by a Therapeutic Abortion Committee. A 1988 Supreme Court of Canada decision found this process unconstitutional. The 1969 law was rendered unenforceable and abortion was effectively decriminalized. As of March 1998 a woman may obtain an abortion in all provinces and territories of Canada, except Prince Edward Island.