Pregnant Women Health and Safety Act of 2025
1/31/2025, 6:46 PMSummary of Bill HR 78
Bill 119 HR 78, also known as the "Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act," aims to amend title 18 of the United States Code to prohibit certain abortion procedures. Specifically, the bill seeks to ban abortions after 20 weeks of pregnancy, with exceptions for cases where the mother's life is in danger or in cases of rape or incest.The bill is based on the premise that fetuses are capable of feeling pain at 20 weeks gestation, and therefore should be protected from being subjected to abortion procedures. Supporters of the bill argue that it is necessary to prevent the suffering of unborn children, while opponents argue that it infringes on a woman's right to choose and could endanger the health and safety of women seeking abortions.
If passed, the bill would have significant implications for abortion providers and women seeking abortions after 20 weeks of pregnancy. It is likely to spark heated debate and controversy in Congress and among the public, as it touches on deeply held beliefs and values surrounding reproductive rights and the sanctity of life.
Congressional Summary of HR 78
Pregnant Women Health and Safety Act of 2025
This bill establishes requirements for physicians who perform abortions and abortion clinics.
Specifically, the bill requires a physician who performs an abortion (1) to have admitting privileges at a nearby hospital; and (2) at the time of the abortion, to notify the patient of the hospital location where the patient can receive follow-up care if complications arise.
A physician who fails to comply is subject to criminal penalties—a fine, a prison term of up to two years, or both. A woman who undergoes an abortion may not be prosecuted.
The bill also requires an abortion clinic, in order to receive federal funds or assistance, to (1) be licensed by the state in which it is located, and (2) be in compliance with federal standards for ambulatory surgical centers.
