A bill to amend title 18, United States Code, to prohibit discrimination by abortion against an unborn child on the basis of Down syndrome.

1/30/2025, 11:56 AM

Summary of Bill S 205

Bill 119 s 205, also known as the "Down Syndrome Discrimination by Abortion Prohibition Act," is a proposed piece of legislation that aims to amend title 18 of the United States Code to prohibit discrimination by abortion against an unborn child on the basis of Down syndrome.

The bill seeks to address the issue of selective abortion based on a prenatal diagnosis of Down syndrome, which is a genetic condition that causes intellectual disabilities and developmental delays. Supporters of the bill argue that such discrimination is unethical and discriminatory towards individuals with Down syndrome, as it devalues their lives and perpetuates harmful stereotypes.

If passed, the bill would make it illegal for healthcare providers to perform an abortion solely because the fetus has been diagnosed with Down syndrome. Violators of the law could face criminal penalties, including fines and imprisonment. Opponents of the bill argue that it infringes on a woman's right to choose and interferes with the doctor-patient relationship. They believe that decisions about abortion should be left to the individual and their healthcare provider, without government interference. Overall, Bill 119 s 205 is a controversial piece of legislation that raises important ethical and legal questions about the rights of individuals with disabilities and the limits of reproductive freedom. It will be interesting to see how lawmakers navigate these complex issues as they consider the bill's passage.

Congressional Summary of S 205

Protecting Individuals with Down Syndrome Act

This bill creates new federal crimes related to the performance of an abortion on an unborn child who has Down syndrome.

It subjects a violator to criminal penalties—a fine, a prison term of up to five years, or both.

It also authorizes civil remedies, including damages and injunctive relief.

A woman who undergoes such an abortion may not be prosecuted or held civilly liable.

Current Status of Bill S 205

Bill S 205 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since January 23, 2025. Bill S 205 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the Senate on January 23, 2025.  Bill S 205's most recent activity was Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary. as of January 23, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill S 205

Total Number of Sponsors
2
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
2
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
21
Democrat Cosponsors
0
Republican Cosponsors
21
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill S 205

Primary Policy Focus


Alternate Title(s) of Bill S 205

A bill to amend title 18, United States Code, to prohibit discrimination by abortion against an unborn child on the basis of Down syndrome.A bill to amend title 18, United States Code, to prohibit discrimination by abortion against an unborn child on the basis of Down syndrome.
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