Bill > HB1844

This bill amends Pennsylvania's abortion laws by adding new definitions and establishing specific requirements for chemical abortions. The bill defines terms like "abortion drug" as a medicine used to terminate a clinically diagnosable pregnancy, "catch kit" as a container for collecting medical waste or samples, and "chemical abortion" as an abortion performed using abortion drugs. The legislation mandates that physicians performing chemical abortions must physically examine the patient in person, be physically present when the patient takes the first abortion drug, schedule a follow-up visit within seven days, and provide the patient with a catch kit and medical waste bag with specific biohazard labeling for proper disposal of fetal remains. The bill requires physicians to use clinical judgment when determining the necessity of an abortion, considering physical, emotional, psychological, and familial factors, and explicitly states that abortions sought solely due to the unborn child's sex are not considered necessary. Exceptions are made for treating ectopic pregnancies or miscarriages. The new regulations will take effect 60 days after the bill's passage, aiming to provide more structured medical oversight and safety protocols for chemical abortion procedures.

Health and Social Services

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1844