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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
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.
