Bill > HB3805

This bill amends Oregon law to expand the definition of murder in the second degree to include causing the death of an unborn child through intentional or knowing unlawful conduct. Specifically, the bill modifies existing statutes to define an "unborn child" as a member of the human species at any stage of development while in the womb, and adds this definition to criminal homicide provisions. The bill creates a new category of criminal homicide that applies when a person intentionally or knowingly engages in unlawful conduct resulting in the death of an unborn child. Important exceptions are included, such as exemptions for lawful abortions performed with consent and actions by the pregnant woman herself. The bill also clarifies that a defendant cannot use lack of knowledge about the pregnancy as a defense. This legislation effectively broadens the legal protections for unborn children by allowing prosecution for their death under murder statutes, while maintaining specific carve-outs for medical procedures and actions by the pregnant woman.

Justice

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/HB3805