Bill > HB812

This bill creates a new felony offense for performing or attempting to perform an abortion using an "abortifacient," which is defined as any drug or substance used to cause an abortion that requires a prescription or is not FDA-approved and primarily used for abortion. The bill specifically targets "foreign senders," defined as individuals or entities that mail, send by common carrier, or knowingly place an abortifacient into commerce with the intent that it be used in the state, or knowingly prescribe such a drug to someone in the state, regardless of the prescriber's location. Violators face a fine of up to $100,000 and/or up to ten years in prison, and it is not a defense that the foreign sender did not intend for an abortion to occur. The bill clarifies that a pregnant woman will not be charged for the death of her unborn child under this law. Additionally, a pregnant woman who receives an abortifacient can file a civil lawsuit against any person or entity that knowingly or intentionally performs or attempts to perform an abortion in violation of this act, seeking $10,000 in damages per violation and injunctive relief. Affirmative defenses to criminal or civil actions include lawful medical procedures by a licensed physician in the state or a pharmacy filling a valid prescription from a licensed physician in the state. This act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Justice

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2026/pdf/history/HB/HB0812.xml