Bill > HB0273

This bill establishes the Wyoming Pregnancy Center Autonomy and Rights of Expression (CARE) Act, which protects pregnancy centers from government interference or regulation based on their pro-life stance. The bill begins by highlighting the important role pregnancy centers play in supporting women facing unexpected pregnancies, offering services like counseling, pregnancy tests, parenting classes, and medical support. It specifically prohibits state and local government entities from requiring pregnancy centers to perform or promote abortions, provide abortion-inducing drugs or contraception, or make referrals for such services. The legislation also prevents governments from interfering with pregnancy centers' hiring practices or punishing them for not offering abortion-related services. The bill provides legal recourse for pregnancy centers, allowing them to sue for damages if they face discriminatory actions, with potential compensation of at least $5,000 plus legal fees. Notably, the bill includes a provision that allows state legislators to intervene if the law's constitutionality is challenged. The law is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and was partly motivated by increased scrutiny of pregnancy centers following the Supreme Court's Dobbs decision overturning Roe v. Wade.

Health and Social Services, Justice

https://www.wyoleg.gov/Legislation/2025/HB0273