Bill > HB2635

This bill, known as the Pregnancy Center Autonomy and Rights of Expression Act, aims to protect private, nonprofit pregnancy centers and medical pregnancy centers that provide "life-affirming care," which includes support and material resources for individuals facing unexpected pregnancies, and promotes childbirth as an alternative to abortion. The act defines "abortion" and "abortion-inducing drug" and clarifies that medical pregnancy centers can provide pregnancy-related medical services and counseling without being required to perform, refer for, or counsel in favor of abortions or abortion-inducing drugs. It also prohibits state and local government entities from enacting measures that would force these centers to offer abortions, abortion-inducing drugs, or referrals, or to promote abortion. Furthermore, the bill allows these centers to provide services and resources like diapers and baby clothes without restriction and protects their ability to hire staff who align with their mission and pro-life ethic. The act establishes a private right of action for violations, allowing aggrieved parties to sue for damages or other relief, and permits the legislature to intervene in legal challenges to the act's constitutionality.