AR
Arkansas Senate Bill SR14

Arkansas 2022 Regular Session

Arkansas Senate Bill SR14

Introduced
2/14/22  

Caption

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Establish The Arkansas Human Heartbeat And Human Life Civil Justice Act To Save The Lives Of Unborn Children And Protect The Health Of Women Through Civil Liability.

Impact

The legislation, if enacted, would introduce significant restrictions on abortion, allowing civil suits against individuals or entities that perform or aid in abortions in violation of the act. This includes statutory damages and attorney's fees for plaintiffs who prevail in such civil actions. Proponents argue that it establishes a stronger legal framework for protecting unborn children, while opponents express that it may infringe on women's healthcare rights and access to abortion services, essentially framing the issue as one of women's autonomy versus fetal rights.

Summary

Senate Resolution 14 (SR14) seeks to authorize a non-appropriation bill known as the Arkansas Human Heartbeat and Human Life Civil Justice Act. This act aims to regulate abortion within the state of Arkansas and to provide civil liability for violations of abortion laws. The legislation emphasizes the protection of unborn children and seeks to enhance the legal frameworks surrounding such protections, asserting that life begins at conception and reiterating the state's commitment to overturning previous Supreme Court decisions that have upheld abortion rights.

Contention

Debate surrounding SR14 highlights key tension points: advocates of the bill contend that it is necessary to protect life and assert the rights of unborn children, while critics argue it severely restricts women's reproductive rights and health options. Additionally, there are concerns over potential legal ramifications for medical practitioners and the healthcare system in Arkansas, with opponents fearing that the law could lead to reduced access to healthcare services for women. The discussion underscores the broader national conflict over reproductive health rights, particularly following significant changes in federal legal standards.

Latest SR14 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

TX HB4876

Imposing liability on those who perform or assist unlawful abortions.

TX HB2258

Imposing private civil liability on anyone who causes or contributes to the social transitioning of a minor.

AR HR1014

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Enact The Arkansas Human Heartbeat And Human Life Civil Justice Act To Save The Lives Of Unborn Children And Protect The Health Of Women Through Civil Liability.

AR SR12

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Create The Arkansas Human Heartbeat And Human Life Civil Justice Act To Save The Lives Of Unborn Children And Protect The Health Of Women Through Civil Liability.

AR HR1013

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Create The Arkansas Human Heartbeat And Human Life Civil Justice Act To Save The Lives Of Unborn Children And Protect The Health Of Women Through Civil Liability.

AR SR13

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Enact The Arkansas Human Heartbeat And Human Life Civil Justice Act To Save The Lives Of Unborn Children And Protect The Health Of Women Through Civil Liability.

AR HR1012

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Implement The Arkansas Human Heartbeat And Human Life Civil Justice Act To Save The Lives Of Unborn Children And Protect The Health Of Women Through Civil Liability.

AR HR1011

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Establish The Arkansas Human Heartbeat And Human Life Civil Justice Act To Save The Lives Of Unborn Children And Protect The Health Of Women Through Civil Liability.