This bill proposes to amend title 18 of the United States Code by establishing new prohibitions regarding the disposal of fetal remains. Specifically, it makes it unlawful for any person to recklessly dispose of or abandon fetal remains in a landfill or in any of the navigable waters of the United States. Violations of this prohibition would carry significant penalties, including imprisonment for up to three years, a fine, or both. The bill defines "fetal remains" as any part of a human fetus deceased by reason of an abortion, explicitly excluding cremated parts. A crucial provision clarifies that this section shall not be construed to authorize the prosecution of any woman for the disposal of the remains of her unborn child.
Protecting the Dignity of Unborn Children Act of 2023
Introduced in House
Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.
Crime and Law Enforcement
AbortionCell biology and embryologySolid waste and recycling
Protecting the Dignity of Unborn Children Act of 2025
USA119th CongressHR-686| House
| Updated: 1/23/2025
This bill proposes to amend title 18 of the United States Code by establishing new prohibitions regarding the disposal of fetal remains. Specifically, it makes it unlawful for any person to recklessly dispose of or abandon fetal remains in a landfill or in any of the navigable waters of the United States. Violations of this prohibition would carry significant penalties, including imprisonment for up to three years, a fine, or both. The bill defines "fetal remains" as any part of a human fetus deceased by reason of an abortion, explicitly excluding cremated parts. A crucial provision clarifies that this section shall not be construed to authorize the prosecution of any woman for the disposal of the remains of her unborn child.