Pennsylvania House Bill HB1194

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/18/23
• Refer: 5/18/23

Caption

In abortion, further providing for publicly owned facilities, public officials and public funds.

Impact

The proposed changes would significantly impact the availability of abortion services in Pennsylvania, particularly within publicly funded health facilities. By restricting the use of public funds for abortions to very limited circumstances, the bill could limit access for low-income individuals who rely on state-funded health services. Proponents argue this is a necessary measure to ensure that taxpayer money is not used for the provision of elective abortions and to uphold moral and ethical standards related to the termination of pregnancies.

Summary

House Bill 1194 introduces amendments to Title 18 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, specifically focusing on abortion regulations related to publicly owned facilities and the expenditure of public funds. The bill seeks to limit the circumstances under which hospitals, health clinics, and other facilities that are owned or operated by government entities can provide abortion services. It stipulates that abortions can only be performed in cases where they are necessary to avert the death of the mother or in instances of pregnancies resulting from rape or incest, provided that these incidents have been reported to law enforcement.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1194 appears to be deeply polarized, reflecting broader national debates on abortion rights. Supporters of the bill, often from conservative and pro-life perspectives, view it as a step toward responsible fiscal policy and moral legislation. Conversely, opponents, primarily from liberal and pro-choice advocates, criticize the bill as an infringement on women's rights and access to healthcare, emphasizing the socioeconomic implications of such restrictions on abortion access.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 1194 include concerns about the impact on women's health and rights, particularly for those who may be victims of sexual assault or incest. Critics argue that the requirement to report such crimes to law enforcement before obtaining an abortion can be a significant barrier, potentially deterring women from seeking necessary medical care. Additionally, there is apprehension regarding the bill's implications for the ethical responsibilities of healthcare providers when faced with the limitation of services they can offer to vulnerable populations.