Pregnancy Center Security Act

Pregnancy Center Security Act

This bill requires the Department of Health and Human Services to award grants on a competitive basis for upgrading the facilities of pregnancy-help organizations. The bill defines these as organizations that provide services to individuals with unintended pregnancies with the intent of encouraging the individuals to give birth; the definition in the bill excludes, however, organizations that perform or refer for abortions (or affiliates of those organizations).

Facility upgrades include installing security systems and making the facilities accessible to people with disabilities.

The bill prohibits the use of grant funds for abortion-related services.

Bill 118 HR 1575, also known as the Pregnancy Center Security Act, was introduced in the US Congress to address concerns regarding the safety and security of pregnancy centers. The bill aims to protect these centers from harassment, intimidation, and violence by establishing penalties for individuals who engage in such behavior.

The legislation specifically prohibits the obstruction of access to a pregnancy center, as well as the use of force, threats, or physical violence against individuals entering or exiting these facilities. It also prohibits the distribution of materials that are intended to intimidate or harass individuals seeking services at a pregnancy center.

Additionally, the bill requires the Department of Justice to provide training and technical assistance to law enforcement agencies and prosecutors on how to effectively enforce the provisions of the legislation. It also authorizes the Attorney General to award grants to states and localities to assist in the implementation and enforcement of the act. Overall, the Pregnancy Center Security Act seeks to ensure the safety and security of pregnancy centers and the individuals who seek services at these facilities. It aims to protect the rights of individuals to access these services without fear of harassment or violence.