Bill > S1244

This bill enhances access to abortion care by implementing several key provisions across multiple sections of Massachusetts law. The bill requires hospitals with emergency departments to provide emergency health services to patients experiencing pregnancy-related medical conditions, including scenarios where abortion is necessary to stabilize a patient's health, with potential fines up to $50,000 for non-compliance and possible license revocation for repeated violations. It expands the definition of healthcare providers who can perform abortions beyond physicians to include a broader range of licensed healthcare professionals, and removes various existing restrictions on abortion access. The bill also mandates that healthcare providers obtain written informed consent from patients before performing an abortion, with exceptions for medical emergencies, and prohibits imposing waiting periods or unnecessary requirements like mandatory ultrasounds. Additionally, the bill requires the Department of Public Health to create a public listing of provider facilities, conduct educational campaigns about pregnancy centers, and ensures confidentiality of reproductive healthcare information for patients, particularly in school-based health centers. Notably, the bill limits conscientious objections by healthcare providers, stating that such objections are not valid when an abortion is required to preserve a patient's life and no other medical staff are available to perform the procedure.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1244