Bill > S2172

This bill establishes a federal prohibition on abortion providers disposing of fetal remains through publicly owned water systems, such as municipal drains, pipes, or water treatment facilities. Specifically, the bill defines an abortion as a medical procedure intentionally terminating a pregnancy or ending an unborn child's life, with some exceptions for procedures aimed at preserving life or removing a deceased unborn child. Any abortion provider who places fetal remains into a public water system would face potential criminal penalties, including fines and up to 5 years of imprisonment. Importantly, the individual who undergoes the abortion cannot be held liable for such a violation. The bill does not prevent states or local governments from establishing their own additional restrictions on fetal remains disposal. The legislation broadly defines "fetal remains" to include the remains of an aborted fetus or any medical waste associated with an abortion. By creating this federal standard, the bill aims to establish a uniform approach to the handling of fetal remains and prevent their disposal through public water infrastructure.

Health and Social Services

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2172/all-info