Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

Arkansas House Bill HB1786

Introduced
3/29/23  
Refer
3/29/23  
Report Pass
3/30/23  
Engrossed
4/4/23  
Refer
4/4/23  
Report Pass
4/5/23  
Enrolled
4/7/23  
Chaptered
4/13/23  

Caption

To Clarify The Performance Of An Abortion To Save The Life Of A Pregnant Woman In A Medical Emergency.

Impact

This bill amends existing Arkansas laws regarding the licensing of abortion clinics and healthcare entities. By narrowing the circumstances under which abortions can be performed, it impacts healthcare accessibility and the rights of women in emergency situations. It effectively centralizes the authority to conduct such procedures in hospitals, potentially limiting the options available to patients facing life-threatening conditions. This could lead to significant changes in emergency care practices and the responsibilities of medical professionals in crisis scenarios.

Summary

House Bill 1786 seeks to clarify the circumstances under which abortions may be performed to save the life of a pregnant woman during a medical emergency. The bill explicitly states that an abortion is permitted only when it is aimed at preserving the life of the woman, thereby establishing clear guidelines for healthcare providers. The legislation mandates that such procedures can only take place in hospitals or emergency rooms, which is intended to ensure that the necessary medical assistance is readily available during critical situations.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB1786 is largely contentious, centering on the deeply divisive issue of abortion. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step for the protection of women's lives during medical emergencies and supports the ethical practices within the healthcare system. Conversely, opponents believe that this bill may restrict access to necessary healthcare and could complicate medical decisions during emergencies, thereby endangering lives. This debate underscores broader societal conflicts regarding reproductive rights and healthcare autonomy.

Contention

Notable points of contention include concerns about how the bill might be interpreted in real-life medical scenarios, and the implications it could have for healthcare providers tasked with making quick decisions in life-or-death situations. Critics fear that the stringent regulations could lead to delays in care or deter healthcare professionals from acting decisively due to fear of legal repercussions. The legislation highlights the ongoing tension between legislative measures and medical discretion, raising questions about the balance between law and healthcare practice.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR SB51

An Act For The University Of Arkansas For Medical Sciences Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1024

An Act For The Department Of Human Services - Medicaid Tobacco Settlement Program Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR SB19

An Act For The Department Of Human Services - Division Of Medical Services Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1031

An Act For The Office Of The Treasurer Of State - Assistance To Local Law Enforcement And Emergency Medical Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR SB79

To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023; To Provide For The Regulation Of Digital Asset Mining Businesses; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SB80

To Amend The Revenue Stabilization Law; To Create Funds, To Repeal Funds, And To Make Transfers To And From Funds And Fund Accounts; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR HB1097

To Amend The Revenue Stabilization Law; To Create Funds, To Repeal Funds, And To Make Transfers To And From Funds And Fund Accounts; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SB78

To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023; To Prohibit Foreign-party-controlled Ownership Of A Digital Asset Mining Business; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR HR1020

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Acts Of 2023, To Regulate Digital Asset Mining Businesses And Businesses Utilizing A Blockchain Network, And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SR17

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Acts Of 2023, To Regulate Digital Asset Mining Businesses And Businesses Utilizing A Blockchain Network, And To Declare An Emergency.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.