IA
Iowa House Bill HF2230

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

Iowa House Bill HF2230

Introduced
1/31/24  
Introduced
1/31/24  

Caption

A bill for an act relating to the survival of, and the bringing of a cause of action for, wrongful death of an unborn child.(See HF 2518.)

Impact

The bill has the potential to significantly alter legal precedents and the definition of personhood in Iowa law. By allowing for wrongful death claims on behalf of unborn children, HF2230 not only expands the legal rights of unborn infants but could also influence related statutes and judicial decisions regarding maternal health and reproductive rights. The inclusion of unborn children in the definition of 'person' in wrongful death claims may lead to additional legal implications in diverse areas such as medical malpractice and criminal law, especially involving cases of bodily harm or negligence.

Summary

House File 2230, introduced by a group of representatives, aims to amend Iowa law to allow for causes of action regarding the wrongful death of an unborn child. The bill clarifies that for the purpose of survival of such actions, 'person' includes an unborn child, which is defined as an individual organism from fertilization to live birth. This legislative proposal seeks to empower parents of unborn children to pursue legal recourse in cases where they believe wrongful death has occurred, establishing a legal precedent for unborn children within the state's judicial framework.

Contention

However, HF2230 has sparked considerable debate among legislators and constituents. Proponents argue that the measure is a necessary recognition of the rights of unborn children and serves to honor the life that has been lost. Conversely, opponents have raised concerns regarding implications for women’s reproductive rights, potential increases in litigation against medical professionals, and the broader ethical implications related to personhood laws. These discussions exemplify the contentious nature of legislation surrounding reproductive health and the rights of unborn children.

Companion Bills

IA HF2518

Similar To A bill for an act relating to the survival of, and the bringing of a cause of action for, wrongful death of an unborn child.(Formerly HF 2230.)

Previously Filed As

IA HF2518

A bill for an act relating to the survival of, and the bringing of a cause of action for, wrongful death of an unborn child.(Formerly HF 2230.)

IA HF106

A bill for an act relating to the survival of, and the bringing of a cause of action for, wrongful death of an unborn child.

IA HB480

Wrongful death; clarify cause of action for an unborn child.

IA H0651

Civil Liability for the Wrongful Death of an Unborn Child

IA H1517

Civil Liability for the Wrongful Death of an Unborn Child

IA HB887

Provides for the right of action in wrongful death and survival actions

IA HB5237

Relating to wrongful death actions arising from the death of an unborn child resulting from an abortion.

IA SB2961

Relating to wrongful death actions arising from the death of an unborn child resulting from an abortion.

IA HF2256

A bill for an act relating to the treatment of an unborn child for the purposes of damages for wrongful death, the defense of compulsion, homicide and related crimes, and assault, making penalties applicable, and including effective date and applicability provisions.

IA HSB621

A bill for an act relating to the nonconsensual causing of death of, or serious injury to, an unborn person, and providing penalties.(See HF 2575.)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.