Virginia House Bill HB983

Virginia 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/12/22
• Refer: 1/12/22

Caption

Abortion; basis of genetic disorder, sex, or ethnicity prohibited, penalty.

Impact

The implementation of HB 983 will likely have significant implications for the practice of abortion in Virginia. It introduces a legal framework that penalizes practitioners who perform abortions under circumstances determined to be discriminatory. This could foster an environment of heightened scrutiny and possibly discourage medical professionals from performing abortions altogether, especially when uncertainty exists regarding the motivations behind a woman's decision to seek one. Moreover, it may lead to legal challenges over the enforcement of this provision, particularly concerning the definitions of 'genetic disorder,' 'sex,' and 'ethnicity,' which may complicate compliance for healthcare providers.

Summary

House Bill 983 primarily addresses the legality of abortion in the Commonwealth of Virginia, specifically criminalizing abortions performed solely based on the genetic disorder, sex, or ethnicity of the fetus. Under this bill, any physician who intentionally performs such an abortion will be guilty of a Class 4 felony. The bill reinforces the state's stance on protecting unborn children from being terminated based on discriminatory reasons, aligning with broader national conversations surrounding reproductive rights and ethics.

Contention

The bill has sparked substantial debate among legislators and advocacy groups, primarily revolving around the implications for women's autonomy and healthcare access. Supporters argue that it is essential for protecting unborn lives, while opponents view it as an infringement on personal choice and women's health rights. Key concerns include the risks it poses to physicians who might fear legal repercussions based on ambiguous definitions and how it may challenge established medical practices regarding reproductive healthcare. Thus, it raises ethical questions about the intersection of personal choice and legislative control over medical decisions.