## Legislative bill overview

The bill S.161, titled the "Women's Health Protection Act of 2021," aims to protect a person's ability to determine whether to continue or end a pregnancy, and to safeguard health care providers' ability to provide abortion services. It seeks to codify the rights previously established in the landmark Roe v. Wade decision, making it illegal for states to impose undue restrictions on access to abortion care and to allow for federal protections against state-level prohibitions.

## Why is this important

This legislation is critical as it seeks to ensure reproductive rights at the federal level in light of increasing state-level restrictions on abortion access. With various states enacting laws that could undermine or outright ban abortion, this bill aims to provide a uniform standard that guarantees individuals' autonomy over their reproductive choices, thus impacting public health, social equity, and women's rights across the nation.

## Potential points of contention

• Opposition from conservative groups and lawmakers who argue that the bill undermines states' rights and promotes abortion access.


• Concerns regarding potential backlash and increased polarization in public opinion surrounding abortion rights.


• Debate over the implications for healthcare providers and the potential for increased legal challenges against them.


• Fiscal implications of implementing and enforcing the provisions of the bill at the federal and state levels.


• Discussion on the moral and ethical considerations surrounding abortion, which could lead to significant public dissent.