This bill amends federal law to prohibit physicians from performing abortions if a fetal heartbeat is detectable, or without first determining its presence and informing the patient. A physician who knowingly violates these provisions faces fines or imprisonment for up to five years. The legislation includes exceptions for abortions necessary to save the life of the pregnant woman due to a physical disorder, illness, or injury, specifically excluding psychological or emotional conditions. Further exceptions apply to pregnancies resulting from rape or incest, provided specific conditions are met. For adult rape victims, counseling or medical treatment for the rape must have been obtained at least 48 hours prior to the abortion. In cases involving a minor, the rape or incest must have been reported to a government agency or law enforcement. Physicians are mandated to maintain specific documentation in the patient's medical file to verify these exceptions, and the pregnant woman is explicitly protected from prosecution under this act. The bill defines "unborn child" as an individual organism of homo sapiens from fertilization and broadly defines "abortion" with specific exclusions. It also clarifies that it does not create or recognize a right to abortion and does not pre-empt state or local laws that provide greater protections for an unborn child.
AbortionCriminal procedure and sentencingHealth personnelWomen's health
Heartbeat Protection Act of 2025
USA119th CongressHR-682| House
| Updated: 1/23/2025
This bill amends federal law to prohibit physicians from performing abortions if a fetal heartbeat is detectable, or without first determining its presence and informing the patient. A physician who knowingly violates these provisions faces fines or imprisonment for up to five years. The legislation includes exceptions for abortions necessary to save the life of the pregnant woman due to a physical disorder, illness, or injury, specifically excluding psychological or emotional conditions. Further exceptions apply to pregnancies resulting from rape or incest, provided specific conditions are met. For adult rape victims, counseling or medical treatment for the rape must have been obtained at least 48 hours prior to the abortion. In cases involving a minor, the rape or incest must have been reported to a government agency or law enforcement. Physicians are mandated to maintain specific documentation in the patient's medical file to verify these exceptions, and the pregnant woman is explicitly protected from prosecution under this act. The bill defines "unborn child" as an individual organism of homo sapiens from fertilization and broadly defines "abortion" with specific exclusions. It also clarifies that it does not create or recognize a right to abortion and does not pre-empt state or local laws that provide greater protections for an unborn child.