Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HR555

Introduced
6/23/23  
Refer
6/23/23  

Caption

Recognizing the importance of intersectionality for abortion access.

Impact

The resolution acknowledges the pervasive issues of maternal mortality and the risks linked to restricted abortion access, particularly for women of color and those in economically disadvantaged communities. It emphasizes the need for the federal government to take comprehensive measures to protect abortion rights, stated as vital for bodily autonomy. The resolution notes that surgical and medication abortions are both safe and vital for the wellbeing of women, addressing the links between increasing restrictions and adverse health outcomes. This commitment to protecting reproductive rights signifies a substantial shift towards acknowledging social justice within healthcare frameworks.

Summary

House Resolution 555 recognizes the critical importance of intersectionality in the context of abortion access. The resolution points out stark disparities faced by women, particularly Black women, who account for a significant portion of abortions and are disproportionately affected by restrictive abortion laws. It highlights that one in four women in the United States will have an abortion by the age of 45, with socioeconomic factors playing a critical role in access to healthcare services. With 22 million women and girls residing in states with strict abortion laws, the resolution calls for urgent attention to the intersection of race, gender, and economic status in discussions about reproductive rights.

Contention

The resolution's strengthening of reproductive justice, especially for marginalized groups, represents a significant pivot in legislative discourse. Supporters likely view HR555 as a necessary acknowledgment of the unique challenges faced by Black women and the LGBTQI+ community regarding access to reproductive healthcare. Contrarily, the contention lies in how such a resolution may face pushback from conservative policymakers and organizations that advocate for more restrictive abortion laws, emphasizing the ongoing national debate over abortion rights. The call for recognition and protection at the federal level may also ignite discussions surrounding the separation of state and federal policies on reproductive health.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HB12

Women's Health Protection Act of 2023 This bill prohibits governmental restrictions on the provision of, and access to, abortion services. Before fetal viability, governments may not restrict providers from using particular abortion procedures or drugs, offering abortion services via telemedicine, or immediately providing abortion services if delaying risks the patient's health. Furthermore, governments may not require providers to perform unnecessary medical procedures, provide medically inaccurate information, or comply with credentialing or other conditions that do not apply to providers who offer medically comparable services to abortions. Additionally, governments may not require patients to make medically unnecessary in-person visits before receiving abortion services or disclose their reasons for obtaining services. After fetal viability, governments may not restrict providers from performing abortions when necessary to protect a patient's life and health. The same provisions that apply to abortions before viability also apply to necessary abortions after viability. Additionally, states may authorize post-viability abortions in circumstances beyond those that the bill considers necessary. Further, the bill recognizes an individual's right to interstate travel, including for abortion services. The bill also prohibits governments from implementing measures that are similar to those restricted by the bill or that otherwise single out and impede access to abortion services, unless the measure significantly advances the safety of abortion services or health of patients and cannot be achieved through less restrictive means. The Department of Justice, individuals, or providers may sue states or government officials to enforce this bill, regardless of certain immunity that would otherwise apply.

US HB561

EACH Act of 2023 Equal Access to Abortion Coverage in Health Insurance Act of 2023

US HR561

Expressing opposition to the use of State power against people in the United States seeking essential health care, including criminalization of the full range of sexual and reproductive health care such as abortion, gender-affirming care, and contraceptive care, and disapproving of State punishment of people for their pregnancy outcomes.

US HB4303

Abortion Justice Act of 2023

US HR539

Recognizing the importance of United States-India relations.

US HCR23

Expressing support for the recognition of March 10, 2023, as "Abortion Provider Appreciation Day".

US HR483

Recognizing the month of June 2023 as "Immigrant Heritage Month", a celebration of the accomplishments and contributions of immigrants and their children in making the United States a healthier, safer, more diverse, prosperous country, and acknowledging the importance of immigrants and their children to the future successes of the United States.

US HB5008

Health Equity and Access under the Law for Immigrant Families Act of 2023 HEAL for Immigrant Families Act of 2023

US SR276

A resolution expressing opposition to the use of State power against people in the United States seeking essential health care, including criminalization of the full range of sexual and reproductive health care such as abortion, gender-affirming care, and contraceptive care, and disapproving of State punishment of people for their pregnancy outcomes.

US HR269

Recognizing that it is the duty of the Federal Government to develop and implement a Transgender Bill of Rights to protect and codify the rights of transgender and nonbinary people under the law and ensure their access to medical care, shelter, safety, and economic security.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.