Bill > S1579

This bill aims to eliminate barriers to abortion access, particularly for minors, by making several key changes to existing Massachusetts law. First, it adds new definitions to Chapter 112, including "abortion-related care" (medically complementary services to abortion) and clarifying who can be considered a "provider" of abortion services. The bill modifies the informed consent process by requiring a standardized consent form that must be signed before the abortion, though without imposing a waiting period, and mandates that these documents remain confidential. Importantly, the bill removes parental consent requirements for minors seeking abortion services by amending section 12F of Chapter 112, which now allows minors to consent to their own medical care, explicitly including abortion. This change means that patients under 16 can independently seek abortion services without needing parental permission, potentially reducing barriers to reproductive healthcare for younger patients. The bill also ensures that the consent forms and related documents can only be released with the patient's written consent or through a judicial order, protecting the patient's privacy.

Health and Social Services, Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1579