Virginia House Bill HB776

Virginia 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Abortion; born alive human infant, treatment and care, penalty.

Impact

This bill significantly alters existing healthcare laws and practices relating to abortion procedures. By instituting stringent penalties, including classifying non-compliance as a Class 4 felony, it aims to enforce the care of infants born alive. This could potentially deter healthcare providers from engaging in abortion services or lead to increased legal risks for hospitals and medical professionals. The legislation may also compel medical facilities to develop new protocols to safeguard compliance with these requirements, thus impacting how abortions are managed within hospitals.

Summary

House Bill 776 establishes requirements for the treatment and care of a human infant who has been born alive following an abortion attempt. The bill mandates that any physician present during the attempted abortion must provide the same level of care and diligence for any infant born alive as would be afforded to any other child born at the same gestational age. Furthermore, it places an obligation on individuals aware of a physician's failure to comply with this requirement to report such instances to law enforcement authorities.

Contention

The introduction of HB 776 has sparked considerable debate among lawmakers, healthcare professionals, and advocacy groups. Proponents argue it is a necessary measure to protect the rights of unborn infants, ensuring that they receive immediate medical care if they survive an abortion attempt. Conversely, opponents contend that the bill could criminalize medical professionals for practicing lawful procedures and potentially infringe upon women's rights to make decisions about their healthcare. There are concerns about the implications this may have on the availability and practice of abortion services, as well as the potential emotional and mental health impacts on the women involved.