Bill > H2428

This bill modifies existing Massachusetts law to establish stricter requirements for abortions performed after the second trimester of pregnancy. Specifically, the bill mandates that such abortions can only be performed in a hospital setting and require certification from three physicians (the performing physician and two consulting physicians) who must unanimously agree that continuing the pregnancy is likely to result in the mother's death. The bill also introduces provisions to protect the life of a fetus born alive during or after an abortion or miscarriage, requiring healthcare providers to use all available life-saving measures and equipment if the fetus shows signs of viability. The legislation aims to provide additional medical safeguards for both mothers and fetuses in late-stage pregnancy situations, while maintaining an exception for medically necessary procedures related to miscarriages before 20 weeks or stillbirths after 20 weeks. These provisions represent significant additional medical and legal requirements for late-term abortion procedures in the state, with a focus on preserving life in complex medical scenarios.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2428