Maine 2025-2026 Regular Session

Maine House Bill LD887

Introduced
3/4/25  
Refer
3/4/25  
Refer
3/4/25  

Caption

An Act to Make Manufacturers Responsible for Proper Disposal of Abortion Drugs and Require a Health Care Provider to Be Physically Present During a Chemical Abortion

Impact

If enacted, LD887 will likely have significant implications for the practice of chemical abortions within the state. By requiring healthcare providers to follow stringent protocols, the bill aims to enhance patient safety and ensure proper handling of medical waste. The bill also places liability on manufacturers for the proper disposal of abortion drugs and the mitigation of any environmental hazards caused by improper disposal. This creates a framework for more responsible practices surrounding abortion drug management, particularly regarding the environmental impact of endocrine disruptors.

Summary

LD887 is a legislative document aimed at regulating the disposal of abortion drugs and ensuring that health care providers are physically present during chemical abortions. The bill mandates that healthcare providers must conduct a physical examination of the patient, be present at the location of the abortion, schedule a follow-up visit within seven days, and provide a catch kit and medical waste bag for safe disposal. This bill categorizes violations as a Class C crime, indicating a serious approach to compliance with the regulations outlined in the bill.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding LD887 is expected to be polarized. Supporters argue that the bill is a necessary move to ensure the safety and health of patients undergoing chemical abortions and to provide a structured approach to medical waste disposal. Conversely, opponents may view it as adding unnecessary regulations that could limit access to abortion services, particularly in areas where healthcare resources are limited. This tension reflects broader societal debates about reproductive rights and healthcare access.

Contention

The most notable point of contention surrounding LD887 focuses on the balance between public health and access to abortion services. Proponents of the bill assert that it is critical to enforce strict regulations to protect patient safety and the environment from the impacts of abortion drug disposal. In contrast, critics may highlight the potential barriers this could create for individuals seeking abortions, suggesting that the requirements might deter some healthcare providers from offering such services due to the regulatory burden.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ME LD1197

An Act to Prevent Coerced Abortion

ME LD1614

An Act to Require an Ultrasound and Certain Counseling Before an Abortion

ME LD1249

An Act to Protect the Quality of Care Provided via Telehealth by Prohibiting Physicians from Prescribing Abortion-inducing Drugs or Devices Through Telehealth or Other Electronic Communication

ME LD1660

An Act to Ensure Proper Regulation of Chemical Plastic Processing

ME LD771

An Act to Protect a Woman's Right to Withdraw Consent for an Abortion

ME LD1554

An Act to Repeal Certificate of Need Requirements for Health Care Providers

ME LD1537

An Act to Amend the Laws Relating to the Prevention of Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances Pollution

ME LD935

An Act to Remove Barriers to Abortion Coverage in Private Insurance

ME LD432

An Act to Clarify MaineCare Program Requirements Regarding Certain High-risk Health Care Providers

ME LD40

An Act to Protect Liberty and Advance Justice in the Administration and Enforcement of the Cannabis Legalization Act and the Maine Medical Use of Cannabis Act

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.