West Virginia 2023 Regular Session

West Virginia Senate Bill SB552

Introduced
2/2/23  
Refer
2/2/23  
Engrossed
3/1/23  
Refer
3/2/23  
Refer
3/2/23  
Enrolled
3/11/23  
Passed
3/29/23  

Caption

Relating to abortion

Impact

The enactment of SB552 could significantly alter how abortion laws are interpreted and enforced within the state. By detailing severability clauses, the bill aims to ensure that if any part of the provisions is deemed unconstitutional, the impact will be limited, allowing for remaining sections to stay effective. This could potentially streamline the legal landscape for abortion in West Virginia, subjecting it to less uncertainty in light of legal challenges.

Summary

Senate Bill 552 pertains to abortion legislation in West Virginia, specifically amending and reenacting §16-2R-9 of the Code of West Virginia. The main objective of this bill is to establish legal frameworks and guidelines surrounding abortion procedures and to clarify the conditions under which related statutes would remain effective or become ineffective based on judicial determinations. The bill passed in the legislature reflects ongoing debates concerning reproductive rights and state-level regulation of abortion services.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB552 is deeply polarized. Proponents argue that the bill helps protect the integrity of state laws regarding abortion and reproductive health, reflecting a commitment to uphold certain moral and ethical standards. Conversely, opponents express significant concerns about the implications for reproductive rights, fearing that further restrictions could follow. The contentious nature of the topic imbues discussions with strong emotional and ideological convictions on both sides.

Contention

Notable points of contention around SB552 include the potential for it to limit access to abortion services and the broader implications for women's rights in West Virginia. Critics argue that the severability clauses may lead to a fragmented legal approach where decisions about abortion access are determined by varying judicial interpretations. Additionally, ethical debates on the appropriateness of state intervention in personal reproductive choices remain unresolved, creating ongoing friction among different stakeholders involved in these discussions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WV HB302

Clarifying West Virginia’s abortion laws

WV HB2733

Relating to the Women’s Right to Know Act

WV HB5073

Relating to the Women’s Right to Know Act

WV SB352

Modifying Unborn Child Protection Act

WV HB4382

Relating to preserving a patient’s right to abortion

WV HB3472

Returning a woman’s right to choose

WV SB551

Preserving patient's right to abortion

WV HB3042

Relating to forbidding excessive government limitations on exercise of religion

WV SB596

Relating to parents' Bill of Rights

WV HB2712

Removing abortion exemptions for rape and incest

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.