Mississippi House Bill HB938

Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/23
• Refer: 1/16/23
• Failed: 1/31/23

Caption

Abortion; repeal prohibition of.

Impact

The anticipated impact of HB 938, if passed, would significantly alter state laws related to abortion. The repeal of Section 41-41-45 would remove restrictions that limit abortions to very specific and dire circumstances. The law's alterations would not only lift certain criminal penalties associated with assisting or obtaining an abortion but also reshape how these matters are addressed legally within Mississippi, reflecting a shift towards granting more autonomy to women in medical decisions related to pregnancy.

Summary

House Bill 938 aims to repeal several existing sections of the Mississippi Code that regulate abortion. Specifically, it targets laws that prohibit abortion except in cases where the mother's life is at risk or in instances of rape. By repealing these sections, the bill effectively seeks to change the legal landscape surrounding abortion access in Mississippi, allowing for broader circumstances under which abortions could be performed legally. This could potentially expand available reproductive healthcare options for women within the state.

Contention

Notably, the bill has sparked considerable debate among lawmakers, health professionals, and advocacy groups. Supporters of HB 938 argue that it promotes women's health rights and enables individuals to make informed choices regarding their reproductive health without excessive legal obstacles. Conversely, opponents raise concerns about the morality of expanding abortion access and the potential societal implications. The discourse surrounding this bill highlights a stark division on the issue of reproductive rights and healthcare access in Mississippi.