Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB26

Introduced
1/8/25  

Caption

In provisions relating to abortion, repealing provisions relating to short title of chapter and to legislative intent, further providing for definitions, repealing provisions relating to medical consultation and judgment, to informed consent, to parental consent, to abortion facilities, to printed information, to Commonwealth interference prohibited, to spousal notice, to determination of gestational age, to abortion on unborn child of 24 or more weeks gestational age, to infanticide, to prohibited acts and to reporting, further providing for publicly owned facilities, public officials and public funds and for fetal experimentation and repealing provisions relating to civil penalties, to criminal penalties, to State Board of Medicine and State Board of Osteopathic Medicine and to construction; providing for reproductive rights; repealing provisions relating to compliance with Federal health care legislation as to regulation of insurers and related persons generally; and imposing penalties.

Impact

Should HB 26 pass, it would dramatically change the landscape of abortion services in Pennsylvania. By eliminating several requirements that are currently seen as barriers for individuals seeking abortions, the bill is intended to ensure easier access to reproductive healthcare. It could potentially shift the regulatory framework surrounding abortion in the state, leading to fewer restrictions on the conditions under which abortions can be performed. This reflects a growing trend toward prioritizing reproductive freedom and autonomy.

Summary

House Bill 26 proposes significant amendments to the existing provisions relating to abortion within the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes. The bill aims to repeal many of the current limitations on abortion procedures, including requirements for medical consultation, informed consent, and parental consent, as well as restrictions on the provision of abortion services at publicly owned facilities. In addition, the bill redefines legal terminology associated with reproductive health and emphasizes the preservation and protection of reproductive rights under Pennsylvania law.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 26 appears to be deeply polarized. Proponents argue that the bill enhances individual rights and recognizes the importance of personal decision-making regarding reproductive health. They contend that removing bureaucratic hurdles will support individuals in accessing necessary medical care. Conversely, opponents express concerns that the repeal of these provisions may lead to poorly informed decisions regarding abortions and could diminish oversight of reproductive health practices.

Contention

Key points of contention within the discussions around HB 26 include the arguments over the necessity of regulations meant to protect the health of women and children, versus the demand for more accessible reproductive healthcare services. Critics of the bill raise concerns about potential risks and the adequacy of informed consent when restrictions are relaxed. The debate encapsulates broader societal divides on issues of bodily autonomy, healthcare access, and the role of government in personal health decisions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB837

In provisions relating to abortion, repealing provisions relating to short title of chapter and to legislative intent, further providing for definitions, repealing provisions relating to medical consultation and judgment, to informed consent, to parental consent, to abortion facilities, to printed information, to Commonwealth interference prohibited, to spousal notice, to determination of gestational age, to abortion on unborn child of 24 or more weeks gestational age, to infanticide, to prohibited acts and to reporting, further providing for publicly owned facilities, public officials and public funds and for fetal experimentation and repealing provisions relating to civil penalties, to criminal penalties, to State Board of Medicine and State Board of Osteopathic Medicine and to construction; providing for reproductive rights; repealing provisions relating to compliance with Federal health care legislation as to regulation of insurers and related persons generally; imposing penalties; and making an editorial change.

PA HB1740

In abortion, further providing for legislative intent, providing for fetal heartbeat examination and further providing for medical consultation and judgment and for abortion on unborn child of 24 or more weeks gestational age; and making an editorial change.

PA HB644

Further providing for definitions; and repealing provisions relating to booth rental prohibited.

PA HB917

In regulation of insurers and related persons generally, repealing provisions relating to compliance with Federal health care legislation.

PA HB2110

In public assistance, repealing provisions relating to expenditure of public funds for abortions limited; and abrogating a regulation.

PA HB454

In firearms and other dangerous articles, repealing provisions relating to firearms not to be carried without a license, providing for license not required, repealing provisions relating to carrying firearms on public streets or public property in Philadelphia, further providing for prohibited conduct during emergency, providing for sportsman's firearm permit, further providing for licenses and for antique firearms and repealing provisions relating to proof of license and exception; and making editorial changes.

PA HB997

Further providing for definitions, for notification of the breach of the security of the system, for exceptions and for notice exemption; repealing provisions relating to civil relief; providing for protection of personal information, for civil relief, for information security and for applicability; and repealing provisions relating to applicability.

PA HB1699

In child custody, further providing for award of custody, repealing provisions relating to relocation and providing for relocation.

PA HB1273

In personal income tax, repealing provisions relating to electronic payment and to additions, penalties and fees; in general provisions, providing for method of payment; and making a repeal.

PA HB1800

In preliminary provisions relating to marriage, further providing for definitions; and, in miscellaneous provisions relating to marriage, repealing provisions relating to marriage between persons of the same sex.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.