California Assembly Bill AB2698

California 2021-2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/18/22

Caption

Reproductive Privacy Act.

Impact

If enacted, AB 2698 would not significantly alter the framework of reproductive rights established by the existing law but would clarify the stipulations under which abortions performed on viable fetuses are considered unauthorized. This is meant to enhance the legal clarity surrounding the conditions under which health care providers are authorized to perform these procedures, thereby reinforcing individual privacy regarding reproductive choices. While the bill does not introduce new regulations, it aims to strengthen the existing protections within the scope of reproductive health decisions.

Summary

Assembly Bill 2698, introduced by Assembly Member Friedman, seeks to amend Section 123468 of the Health and Safety Code, specifically regarding reproductive rights. This amendment preserves the fundamental right of individuals to make private reproductive decisions. Under the existing Reproductive Privacy Act, which the bill aims to modify, individuals are protected from state interference in their choices surrounding abortion, particularly before the fetus reaches viability or when necessary to protect the health of the individual. The proposed changes in AB 2698 are primarily technical and nonsubstantive in nature.

Contention

The discussions surrounding AB 2698 indicate a thematic concern regarding the balance between reproductive rights and state oversight. Despite being a technical amendment, it reveals the ongoing debates in the legislature about reproductive health rights, especially in light of shifting national dialogues on the subject. Critics of amendments to the Reproductive Privacy Act may argue any changes—even nonsubstantive—could be seen as an attempt to erode rights and protections previously established, leading to broader implications for personal liberties.