Georgia House Bill HB795

Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/20/23

Caption

Crimes and offenses; criminal abortion; immaculate conception clause; enact

Impact

The introduction of this bill marks a significant revision of existing reproductive health laws in Georgia, explicitly aiming to equalize the legal ramifications for men and women involved in an abortion. This could lead to a substantial shift in how abortion cases are treated under state law. By establishing equal penalties for prospective fathers, the bill aims to reinforce the moral and legal accountability of both parties involved. This measure may catalyze discussions on reproductive rights and responsibilities, particularly regarding the role of fathers in abortion decisions.

Summary

House Bill 795 seeks to amend the Code Section 16-12-140 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, specifically addressing the legal considerations surrounding criminal abortion. The bill introduces an 'immaculate conception' clause that proposes equal penalties for both a prospective mother and father of an unborn fetus found guilty of abortion-related offenses. Under this bill, a person convicted of administering anything with the intent to induce abortion will face imprisonment ranging from one to ten years. This legislative change comes in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court's decision which overturned Roe v. Wade, thereby shifting the context of abortion laws across various states.

Contention

The bill has also sparked notable points of contention. Supporters may argue that the legislation strengthens the moral framework around pregnancy and responsible procreation, while critics could view it as an attempt to further limit reproductive freedoms. The enforcement of heavier penalties on both prospective parents raises concerns about potential overreach into personal decisions regarding pregnancy and could lead to legal ramifications beyond just those directly involved in the abortion process.