Virginia House Bill HB1364

Virginia 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/15/24
• Refer: 1/15/24

Caption

Abortion; prohibited, exception, saving life of the mother, penalty.

Impact

If passed, HB1364 would tighten the requirements for minors seeking abortion services, potentially impacting the accessibility of these services for young women. By increasing the barriers for minors, the bill aims to ensure that parental involvement is a significant factor in such decisions. Advocates of the bill argue that it safeguards parental rights and promotes responsible choices among minors, while opponents fear it could lead to unintended consequences, including delays in necessary medical treatment or driving minors to seek unsafe alternatives.

Summary

House Bill 1364 addresses the regulation of abortion, particularly as it concerns minors. The bill proposes amending certain sections of the Code of Virginia that govern the jurisdiction and consent required for minors seeking an abortion. Notably, it stresses that no physician shall knowingly perform an abortion on an unemancipated minor unless formal consent is obtained from an 'authorized person'. This is defined to include a parent or legal guardian but provides exceptions for specific circumstances, including medical emergencies or allegations of abuse.

Contention

The primary contention around HB1364 is centered on the balance between protecting minors and ensuring their rights. Critics argue that the bill could infringe on the autonomy of minors and disproportionately impact those in abusive or neglectful situations. They express concern that requiring parental consent may prevent some minors from accessing the care they need in a timely manner. Proponents believe the bill upholds parental rights and promotes family involvement in critical health decisions.