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Federal Law Protects Abortion Access Nationwide, Overriding State Restrictions.

This Act establishes a nationwide statutory right for individuals to obtain and for healthcare providers to offer abortion services, largely superseding conflicting state laws. It prohibits states from imposing medically unnecessary restrictions, such as mandatory in-person visits or facility requirements not applied to comparable procedures, especially before fetal viability. Crucially, it protects the fundamental right of a person to travel across state lines to access these services.
Key points
Guarantees the right to abortion services before fetal viability, preventing states from enacting outright bans during this period.
Prohibits states from imposing burdensome limitations on abortion services that are not applied to medically comparable procedures (e.g., unnecessary tests, facility standards).
Protects the right to obtain an abortion post-viability if the patient's life or health is at risk, based on the provider's good-faith medical judgment.
Affirms the fundamental right to travel to another state to seek or assist someone in seeking reproductive health services.
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Expired
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_701
Sponsor: Sen. Baldwin, Tammy [D-WI]
Process start date: 2023-03-09
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Summarized by: gemini-flash-latest
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Women’s Health Protection Act of 2023

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_S_701.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2023-03-09.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Guarantees the right to abortion services before fetal viability, preventing states from enacting outright bans during this period.
  • Prohibits states from imposing burdensome limitations on abortion services that are not applied to medically comparable procedures (e.g., unnecessary tests, facility standards).
  • Protects the right to obtain an abortion post-viability if the patient's life or health is at risk, based on the provider's good-faith medical judgment.
  • Affirms the fundamental right to travel to another state to seek or assist someone in seeking reproductive health services.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Baldwin, Tammy [D-WI].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Read the second time. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 26.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-27.

CATEGORIES

Health Courts and Law