House Eyes Passage of Bill Altering Criteria for Late-Term Abortions
The measure would let physicians decide later-term cases, as supporters say dozens of patients leave the state each year for care.
- The Massachusetts House Ways and Means Committee advanced legislation on Tuesday that eliminates the existing four-pronged framework for abortions at 24 weeks or later, replacing it with a standard allowing physicians to act on professional judgment alone. The bill cleared on a 23-6 vote.
- State Representative Christine Barber, who sponsored the bill, said it addresses patients currently forced to travel out of state for care. Supporters argue the existing four-pronged criteria fail to account for complex medical circumstances that arise during pregnancy.
- Department of Public Health data shows 99 abortions at 24 weeks or later in 2024, compared to 84 in 2023. The Massachusetts Health & Hospital Association registered support, writing the current framework "does not adequately meet the needs of patients."
- The Massachusetts Family Institute warned the bill removes "meaningful limitations" on late-term abortions. Giovanna Johnson, the institute's communications associate, said the measure would codify "unrestricted access," fueling opposition before Wednesday's House vote.
- Senate President Karen Spilka stated she "looks forward to reviewing" the proposal if it passes the House. Lawmakers face a self-imposed July 31 deadline for bills to clear both chambers before the two-year legislative session ends January 5.
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19 Articles
The project was approved with 119 votes in favour and 33 against following a debate on health care in high-risk pregnancies
Salem News
House Democrats lift late-term abortion restrictions
BOSTON — Members of the Democratic-controlled state House of Representatives have taken steps to ease Massachusetts' restrictions on abortions that are performed after 24 weeks in response to concerns the current law is forcing women to go to other states…
Massachusetts House passes bill that would loosen late-term abortion rules
The bill would leave it to physicians to decide if an abortion is necessary after 24 weeks of pregnancy. Current law allows such abortions only under certain circumstances. The post Massachusetts House passes bill that would loosen late-term abortion rules appeared first on Boston.com.
Massachusetts Bill Would Expand Abortions Up to Birth
A critical decision is happening now at the Massachusetts State House. The House Committee on Ways and Means is considering H.2370, “An Act prioritizing patient access to care,” and members of the committee are being asked whether they support advancing this bill. According to sources inside the State House, the committee is preparing to move […] The post Massachusetts Bill Would Expand Abortions Up to Birth appeared first on LifeNews.com.
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