Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB2573

Introduced
4/10/23  
Refer
4/10/23  

Caption

To express the Sense of Congress with respect to Federal preemption of State restrictions on dispensing medication abortion, and for other purposes.

Impact

The bill stands to significantly alter the landscape of reproductive health by ensuring that federal guidelines take precedence over state regulations in relation to medication abortion. This move could enhance access to abortion medication, particularly through telehealth services, which can make it easier for individuals, particularly in rural or underserved areas, to obtain necessary medical care without the need for physical trips to healthcare providers. The implication of this bill is an expansion of reproductive rights at the federal level, potentially benefitting many who seek these services.

Summary

House Bill 2573 is designed to express the Sense of Congress regarding the Federal preemption of state restrictions on dispensing medication abortion. Introduced in the House of Representatives, the bill asserts that medication abortion is to be regulated under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. It specifies that federal approval should override any state laws that create additional requirements on the dispensing of medication abortion. Notably, this includes prohibiting state laws that require in-person visits for dispensing or that restrict telehealth prescriptions for medication abortion.

Contention

Despite its supportive intentions, HB2573 may attract opposition at the state level. Some state legislatures and advocacy groups may argue that this kind of federal intervention undermines states' rights to regulate their own healthcare practices. There is a concern that such federal preemption could inadvertently lead to a decrease in local accountability, as states may feel hindered in their legislative capabilities regarding healthcare access and women's health issues. Discussions around this bill could be polarizing, reflecting broader societal debates about reproductive rights and healthcare governance.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HCR17

Expressing the sense of Congress that the Federal Government should not impose any restrictions on the export of crude oil or other petroleum products.

US HR309

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the Food and Drug Administration has the authority to approve drugs for abortion care.

US HCR57

Expressing the sense of Congress supporting the State of Israel.

US HR315

Expressing support for honoring Earth Day, and for other purposes.

US HB12

Women's Health Protection Act of 2023 This bill prohibits governmental restrictions on the provision of, and access to, abortion services. Before fetal viability, governments may not restrict providers from using particular abortion procedures or drugs, offering abortion services via telemedicine, or immediately providing abortion services if delaying risks the patient's health. Furthermore, governments may not require providers to perform unnecessary medical procedures, provide medically inaccurate information, or comply with credentialing or other conditions that do not apply to providers who offer medically comparable services to abortions. Additionally, governments may not require patients to make medically unnecessary in-person visits before receiving abortion services or disclose their reasons for obtaining services. After fetal viability, governments may not restrict providers from performing abortions when necessary to protect a patient's life and health. The same provisions that apply to abortions before viability also apply to necessary abortions after viability. Additionally, states may authorize post-viability abortions in circumstances beyond those that the bill considers necessary. Further, the bill recognizes an individual's right to interstate travel, including for abortion services. The bill also prohibits governments from implementing measures that are similar to those restricted by the bill or that otherwise single out and impede access to abortion services, unless the measure significantly advances the safety of abortion services or health of patients and cannot be achieved through less restrictive means. The Department of Justice, individuals, or providers may sue states or government officials to enforce this bill, regardless of certain immunity that would otherwise apply.

US HCR68

Expressing support for the recognition of September 26, 2023, as "World Contraception Day" and expressing the sense of the House of Representatives regarding global and domestic access to contraception.

US HCR63

Expressing the sense of Congress that August 30, 2023, be observed as the 133d anniversary of the 1890 Institutions.

US SB62

No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion and Abortion Insurance Full Disclosure Act of 2023 This bill modifies provisions relating to federal funding for, and health insurance coverage of, abortions. Specifically, the bill prohibits the use of federal funds for abortions or for health coverage that includes abortions. Such restrictions extend to the use of funds in the budget of the District of Columbia. Additionally, abortions may not be provided in a federal health care facility or by a federal employee. Historically, language has been included in annual appropriations bills for the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that prohibits the use of federal funds for abortions—such language is commonly referred to as the Hyde Amendment. Similar language is also frequently included in appropriations bills for other federal agencies and the District of Columbia. The bill makes these restrictions permanent and extends the restrictions to all federal funds (rather than specific agencies). The bill's restrictions regarding the use of federal funds do not apply in cases of rape, incest, or where a physical disorder, injury, or illness endangers a woman's life unless an abortion is performed. The Hyde Amendment provides the same exceptions. The bill also prohibits qualified health plans from including coverage for abortions. Currently, qualified health plans may cover abortion, but the portion of the premium attributable to abortion coverage is not eligible for subsidies.

US HCR3

Expressing the sense of Congress condemning the recent attacks on pro-life facilities, groups, and churches.

US HCR23

Expressing support for the recognition of March 10, 2023, as "Abortion Provider Appreciation Day".

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.