Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that prohibits an abortion after the detection of a fetal heartbeat.

Highlights:

• Prohibits an individual from knowingly and purposefully performing or inducing an abortion before determining whether fetal heartbeat exists, except in the following circumstances (Sec. 1):
• The abortion is intended to prevent the death of the pregnant woman; or
• The abortion is intended to prevent a “serious risk” of “substantial and irreversible impairment” of a major bodily function of the pregnant woman.

• Classifies the following violations as a felony of the fifth degree (Sec. 1):
• Performing the abortion before determining whether there is a fetal heartbeat; or
• Performing the abortion after a fetal heartbeat has been detected.

• Exempts a physician who performs or induces an abortion in violation of this bill if he or she believes that a medical emergency exists that prevents compliance with the provisions of this bill (Sec. 1).

• Authorizes a woman to file a civil action against a physician who violates the provisions of this bill (Sec. 1).

• Requires a woman who prevails in the action to receive both of the following from the individual who committed the violation (Sec. 1):
• No more than $10,000 in damages; and
• Court costs and attorney’s fees.

Full Bill Text