Bill > A05161

This bill amends the public health law to provide pregnant individuals with alternative options to surgical abortion after 24 weeks of pregnancy, specifically introducing two new procedures: sedated birth and perinatal hospice. Under sedated birth, a pregnant person would receive general anesthesia and be induced into labor, delivering a live infant without intentionally ending its life. Perinatal hospice is defined as specialized care focused on providing emotional support and a peaceful end-of-life experience for a potentially terminally ill fetus, allowing parents to participate in healthcare decisions and potentially commemorate their baby's life. The bill requires healthcare practitioners to inform patients considering abortion after 24 weeks that surgical abortion is irreversible and offer these alternative procedures. Medical providers must document these consultations in the patient's medical record and provide both verbal and written information about the alternatives. In the case of sedated birth, the patient would have the option to either have the baby immediately placed for adoption or surrendered to social services under safe haven laws, without further contact. The goal of the bill appears to be providing more comprehensive options and information to pregnant individuals facing difficult medical circumstances.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5161