Bill 119 HR 682, also known as the "Heartbeat Protection Act of 2021," aims to amend title 18 of the United States Code to prohibit abortion in cases where a fetal heartbeat is detectable. This means that once a heartbeat is detected, typically around six weeks into a pregnancy, abortion would be illegal except in cases where the mother's life is at risk.
Supporters of the bill argue that a fetal heartbeat is a clear indicator of life and that abortion at this stage is essentially ending a human life. They believe that protecting the rights of the unborn is a moral imperative.
Opponents of the bill argue that it infringes on a woman's right to choose and could potentially harm women's health by limiting access to safe and legal abortion services. They also argue that six weeks is often before many women even realize they are pregnant, making it difficult for them to make an informed decision about their pregnancy.
The bill has sparked intense debate and controversy, with both sides passionately advocating for their beliefs. It remains to be seen how the bill will progress through Congress and what impact it may have on abortion laws in the United States.