Alabama Senate Bill SB13

Alabama 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/24
• Refer: 2/6/24

Caption

Abortion; right to make reproductive decisions, established; state prohibited from restricting abortion in certain circumstances

Impact

The proposed amendment directly challenges existing state laws regarding abortion, particularly by allowing for abortion procedures after fetal viability under specific circumstances. It dictates that abortion cannot be prohibited if it is necessary to protect the life or health of the pregnant individual, therefore establishing a clear framework for when state intervention might be justified. This shift may harmonize Alabama's laws with broader reproductive rights norms, offering enhanced protections to individuals seeking to control their reproductive health decisions.

Summary

SB13 proposes a significant amendment to the Constitution of Alabama, aiming to establish the individual right to make reproductive decisions. This includes decisions regarding contraception, fertility treatment, miscarriage care, and abortion. The bill emphasizes that the state should not impose any burdens, penalties, or restrictions on such decisions unless it can demonstrate that it is using the least restrictive means to further the individual's health, in line with evidence-based practices. Thus, the bill underscores the necessity for individual autonomy in reproductive health decisions.

Contention

The introduction of SB13 has sparked considerable debate among legislators and advocacy groups. Proponents argue that this bill is a vital safeguard for individual rights and health autonomy, countering previous restrictive measures. Conversely, opponents express concerns over the implications of expanding access to abortion and the potential for increased state engagement in reproductive matters. The bill is likely to face rigorous scrutiny and debate, particularly given Alabama's complex legal history surrounding reproductive issues.