Bill > S205

This bill seeks to prohibit abortions performed specifically because an unborn child has been diagnosed with Down syndrome, which is a chromosomal disorder characterized by an extra copy of chromosome 21. The legislation would make it unlawful for medical professionals to perform an abortion after knowing or suspecting that the unborn child has Down syndrome, with potential criminal penalties of up to 5 years in prison and financial fines. The bill provides civil remedies for qualified plaintiffs, including the woman herself, maternal grandparents, and the child's father (with some exceptions), who can seek damages and injunctive relief against abortion providers. Medical professionals would be required to report suspected violations, and the bill includes provisions to protect the privacy of women involved in such cases. The legislation explicitly states that it does not create a broad right to abortion and does not override existing federal, state, or local laws regarding abortion. The bill's findings emphasize that individuals with Down syndrome are valuable members of society and should not face discrimination, drawing parallels to other forms of discrimination and highlighting the importance of respecting the dignity of people with disabilities.

Justice

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/205/all-info