Bill > SB2048

This bill, known as the Safeguarding Teens from Out-of-State Procedures (STOP) Act, aims to criminalize actions that help a minor girl obtain an abortion or abortion-inducing drugs without parental consent in Mississippi. The legislation defines key terms such as "abortion" (terminating a pregnancy with intent to end the unborn child's life), "abortion-inducing drug" (medication specifically intended to end a pregnancy), and "minor girl" (an unmarried female resident under 18). The bill makes it a felony for any person to procure an abortion, obtain abortion-inducing drugs, or assist a minor girl in doing so by harboring or transporting her within the state, with potential penalties of up to 15 years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine. The legislation emphasizes parental rights, stating that parents should be consulted and informed about medical procedures involving their children. An important provision allows for an affirmative defense if a parent or guardian consents to the minor's transportation, and explicitly states that the minor girl herself cannot be criminally prosecuted. Additionally, the bill creates a private cause of action, allowing individuals to seek damages for violations of the act. The bill does not create a right to abortion and is not intended to make currently unlawful abortions legal.

Health and Social Services

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/SB/SB2048.xml