Indiana House Bill HJR0007

Indiana 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Provides that the rights set forth in the Indiana Constitution and the Indiana Code apply to a pre-born child as soon as the pre-born child's mother is aware she is pregnant. This proposed amendment has not been previously agreed to by a general assembly.

Impact

If successfully passed and ratified, HJR0007 would effectively amend the Indiana Constitution to provide legal recognition to pre-born children, potentially influencing various aspects of reproductive health law and rights within the state. This change is likely to spark extensive legal debate regarding the implications for abortion rights, prenatal care, and the responsibilities of healthcare providers toward both the mother and the unborn child. Additionally, it could lead to significant alterations in how existing statutes related to child welfare and maternal health are interpreted within Indiana.

Summary

House Joint Resolution No. 7 (HJR0007) proposes an amendment to Article 1 of the Constitution of the State of Indiana, recognizing the rights of a pre-born child from the moment the child's mother becomes aware of her pregnancy. This resolution seeks to explicitly extend the protections afforded by the Indiana Constitution and the Indiana Code to pre-born children, marking a significant shift in how fetal rights are acknowledged in state law. The proposal, however, has not yet been agreed upon by a general assembly and would require further approval in subsequent legislative sessions.

Contention

The proposal is expected to generate considerable discussion and controversy among lawmakers and the public. Proponents may argue that it is a necessary step toward recognizing the dignity and rights of the pre-born, claiming that it reflects a moral and ethical responsibility to protect life from the earliest stages. On the other hand, opponents of the amendment could raise concerns regarding the implications for women's reproductive rights and personal autonomy. There may also be fears about creating legal precedents that could hinder access to healthcare services for women, particularly in the context of abortion and prenatal care policies.