Us Congress Senate Bill SB1103

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/30/23
• Refer: 3/30/23

Caption

Parental Notification and Intervention Act

Impact

The enactment of SB1103 would significantly alter the landscape of abortion laws for minors across the states by imposing federal standards. While the bill does not override state laws with stricter parental notification requirements, it sets a minimum that may affect how states modify their existing laws. The requirement for parental notification raises concerns over minors’ autonomy and could act as a barrier to timely access to necessary healthcare for young individuals facing unwanted pregnancies. Proponents argue that such measures ensure parental involvement, whereas critics contend it undermines the emotional and physical safety of minors by potentially deterring them from seeking care.

Summary

SB1103, known as the Parental Notification and Intervention Act, aims to enact strict regulations concerning abortions for unemancipated minors. The bill mandates that any individual or organization involved in the performance of an abortion on a minor under the age of 18 must provide written notification to the minor's parents. This notification must occur unless previously waived by a court due to evidence of parental abuse. Additionally, the bill stipulates a waiting period of 96 hours after notification, during which no abortion can be performed. Violating these requirements could result in fines or imprisonment, emphasizing the bill's stringent approach towards parental involvement in decision-making.

Contention

Notable points of contention stem from the balance between parental rights and the rights of minors. Advocates for the bill argue that parents should be informed about significant medical decisions their children may face, particularly those with profound social and moral implications like abortion. Conversely, opponents highlight that requiring parental notification may deter minors from seeking essential medical care due to fear of their parents' reaction, especially in dire situations. Additionally, the stipulation of clear evidence required for waiving parental notification due to abuse has raised concerns about the burden it places on minors who may already be in distressing circumstances.