Michigan House Bill HB5012

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/19/23
• Refer: 9/19/23

Caption

Health: abortion; abortion care after fetal viability; modify. Creates new act.

Impact

The impact of HB5012 extends to state laws governing abortion and healthcare rights. By defining fetal viability and limiting abortion procedures after reaching this milestone, the bill could lead to fewer options available to pregnant individuals seeking abortions. It underscores the state's intention to narrow the criteria under which abortions can be legally performed, potentially influencing similar legal frameworks in other states and prompting legal challenges based on individual rights and healthcare access concerns.

Summary

House Bill 5012 aims to regulate abortion procedures specifically after the point of fetal viability. The bill states that no abortions shall be conducted after this stage unless it is deemed medically necessary to protect the health or life of the pregnant individual, based on the expert judgment of qualified medical professionals, including certified obstetricians, maternal-fetal medicine specialists, or psychiatrists. This bill represents a significant shift in abortion regulation and seeks to establish clear guidelines around what expects concerning fetal viability and the circumstances under which an abortion can be performed.

Contention

Contention surrounding HB5012 primarily revolves around the ethical implications of restricting abortion rights after fetal viability. Supporters argue that the bill is necessary to protect the potential life of the fetus, whereas opponents contend that it could infringe upon the healthcare rights of women, restricting their options during a critical time. The delineation of 'extraordinary medical measures' added by the bill also raises questions among healthcare professionals about the adequacy of care and potential risks involved in such stringent regulations.