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To amend title 18, United States Code, to prohibit abortion in cases where a fetal heartbeat is detectable.
2/8/2025, 9:01 AM
Summary of Bill HR 682
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.
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.
Congressional Summary of HR 682
Heartbeat Protection Act of 2025
This bill makes it a crime for a physician to knowingly perform an abortion (1) without determining whether the unborn child has a detectable heartbeat, (2) without informing the mother of the results, or (3) after determining that an unborn child has a detectable heartbeat.
A physician who performs a prohibited abortion is subject to criminal penalties—a fine, up to five years in prison, or both.
The bill provides an exception for an abortion that is necessary to save the life of a mother whose life is endangered by a physical (but not psychological or emotional) disorder, illness, or condition. It also provides exceptions for certain pregnancies that are the result of rape or incest. A physician who performs or attempts to perform an abortion under an exception must comply with specified requirements.
A woman who undergoes a prohibited abortion may not be prosecuted for violating or conspiring to violate the provisions of this bill.
Current Status of Bill HR 682
Bill HR 682 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since January 23, 2025. Bill HR 682 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the House on January 23, 2025. Bill HR 682's most recent activity was Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. as of January 23, 2025
Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 682
Total Number of Sponsors
5Democrat Sponsors
0Republican Sponsors
5Unaffiliated Sponsors
0Total Number of Cosponsors
144Democrat Cosponsors
0Republican Cosponsors
144Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 682
Primary Policy Focus
Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 682
To amend title 18, United States Code, to prohibit abortion in cases where a fetal heartbeat is detectable.
To amend title 18, United States Code, to prohibit abortion in cases where a fetal heartbeat is detectable.
Comments
Sponsors and Cosponsors of HR 682
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