## Legislative bill overview

The bill S.131, titled the "Women's Health Protection Act of 2023," aims to protect a person's ability to determine whether to continue or terminate a pregnancy and to safeguard healthcare providers' ability to offer abortion services without undue restrictions. It seeks to establish a statutory right to access abortion services at the federal level, countering various state-level restrictions that have proliferated since the Supreme Court's decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization.

## Why is this important

This bill is significant as it seeks to codify abortion rights in response to escalating state-level regulations that could effectively limit access to reproductive healthcare. By protecting these rights at the federal level, the legislation aims to ensure uniform access to abortion services across states, potentially reducing health disparities and safeguarding individuals' autonomy over their reproductive choices.

## Potential points of contention

• Opposition from conservative groups and legislators who advocate for states' rights to regulate abortion.


• Concerns about the potential impact on healthcare providers, including potential legal liabilities and the moral implications of abortion services.


• Debates over the definition of viable pregnancy and gestational limits, which could lead to conflicting interpretations.


• Funding implications, as federal resources may be directed toward supporting abortion services, leading to contention over taxpayer involvement.


• Potential for increased polarization on the abortion issue, further entrenching the divide between pro-choice and pro-life advocates.