Abortion pills; Prevention of Maternal Harm Act of 2025; coerced abortion; imprisonment; fines; Schedule IV; mifepristone and misoprostol; effective date.
The passage of HB 1724 is expected to alter existing state laws regarding abortion and drug administration. By specifically listing mifepristone and misoprostol as regulated substances under the state’s Schedule IV, the bill reinforces oversight over these medications. This change could lead to increased scrutiny and regulation concerning prescriptions and dispensation of abortion-related medications, thereby affecting both healthcare providers and patients seeking such treatments.
House Bill 1724, known as the 'Prevention of Maternal Harm Act of 2025', seeks to address the issue of coerced abortion by criminalizing the fraudulent administration of abortion-inducing drugs to pregnant women. The bill specifically targets coercive actions that infringe upon a woman's autonomy, defining the crime of coerced abortion and establishing penalties for those who commit such acts. It stipulates significant imprisonment terms ranging from five to twenty years and substantial fines, depending on the circumstances of the offense.
The bill has faced notable opposition from various advocacy groups concerned about women's rights and reproductive health. Critics argue that the broad definitions and severe penalties could inadvertently criminalize necessary or consensual medical practices. Moreover, there are fears that it might lead to deeper entrenchment of restrictions on reproductive health services in Oklahoma. Supporters, however, emphasize the need for protective measures against coercion in abortion scenarios and the importance of safeguarding maternal health.