Bill 119 HR 21, also known as the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act, aims to amend title 18 of the United States Code to prevent health care practitioners from neglecting to provide appropriate care for a child who survives an abortion or attempted abortion. The bill seeks to ensure that these infants receive the necessary medical attention and treatment to sustain their lives.
The legislation addresses concerns about the treatment of infants who are born alive following an abortion procedure. It seeks to establish legal protections for these vulnerable newborns and hold health care providers accountable for providing them with the same level of care and support as any other newborn.
If passed, the bill would make it a criminal offense for a health care practitioner to intentionally withhold medical care or treatment from a child who survives an abortion. It would also require health care facilities to report any instances of a child surviving an abortion to law enforcement and appropriate authorities.
Supporters of the bill argue that it is necessary to protect the rights and well-being of infants who are born alive after an abortion procedure. They believe that all newborns, regardless of the circumstances of their birth, deserve to receive proper medical care and attention.
Opponents of the bill raise concerns about potential implications for women's reproductive rights and the autonomy of health care providers. They argue that the legislation could interfere with medical decision-making and create unnecessary legal barriers for health care professionals.
Overall, Bill 119 HR 21 addresses the complex and sensitive issue of abortion and the care of infants who survive the procedure. It seeks to establish legal protections for these newborns and ensure that they receive the medical care and support they need to thrive.