Massachusetts Moves Toward New Abortion Legislation
In Massachusetts, legislators are considering a significant change that could grant doctors the authority to decide on the permissibility of abortions
later in pregnancy. This adjustment, which has already passed the state Senate, awaits the signature of Democratic Governor Maura Healey, known for her support of strengthening abortion rights.
The current legal framework in Massachusetts permits abortions up to 24 weeks of gestation. Beyond this period, an abortion is allowed only if it is essential to protect the woman’s life or health, due to severe fetal anomalies, or if the fetus is not viable outside the womb. State Rep. Christine Barber has pointed out that this has led to hospitals denying abortions even in critical situations, such as when a fetus experienced a stroke, rendering it non-viable.
The proposed law would eliminate the specific criteria, allowing abortions solely based on the physician’s professional judgment. However, this has sparked concern among opponents who argue that it could lead to abortions being performed up until birth on healthy fetuses, potentially increasing the risks associated with late-term procedures. Myrna Maloney Flynn, president of Massachusetts Citizens for Life, has voiced these concerns, stating, “While this legislation prioritizes access, it does not prioritize a woman’s safety.”
Changes in U.S. Abortion Laws
If signed, this legislation will represent another shift in the U.S. abortion landscape, which has been evolving since the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. This landmark ruling has allowed for the enforcement of abortion bans in several states, with 13 states currently implementing bans at all stages of pregnancy, and four others restricting it after approximately six weeks.
In contrast, some Democratic-led states have been enacting laws to protect abortion providers, particularly those offering services across state lines. Massachusetts, for instance, has implemented a shield law for medical professionals prescribing abortion pills via telehealth to residents in states where abortion is banned. However, these protections are being challenged by anti-abortion officials in states like Louisiana and Texas.
While many of the abortion-related laws introduced this year have not significantly altered the timing or methods of abortion access, there have been notable exceptions. For example, a new Colorado law mandates that public college health centers offer abortion pills by August 2027, although private institutions with conflicting religious views are exempt. Conversely, an Oklahoma statute now criminalizes the purchase or sale of these pills for facilitating unlawful abortions.
