WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 2605

An Act amending Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in abortion, further providing for Commonwealth interference prohibited.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Gina Curry and 9 co-sponsors

The bill aims to protect abortion access by prohibiting and penalizing government interference in individuals’ ability to obtain abortion services.

0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2605

Overview

HB 2605 (2025-2026) is a Pennsylvania bill that amends Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, specifically within the abortion chapter, with a focus on prohibiting Commonwealth interference. The measure has multiple Democratic sponsors listed.

Purpose and intent

  • The primary aim is to address and deter interference by Commonwealth actors (likely state or local government entities) in abortion decisions and access.
  • The bill signals a legal framework to protect abortion access from governmental actions or policies that could unduly hinder a person’s right to obtain abortion services.

Key provisions and changes

  • Amends Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses) to strengthen or specify prohibitions on Commonwealth interference related to abortion.
  • The language suggests creating or reinforcing criminal or civil penalties for government actions that unduly restrict, impose burdens, or otherwise interfere with an individual’s access to abortion services.
  • The provisions may clarify jurisdiction, definitions of “interference,” and the scope of actions deemed unlawful or prosecutable.
  • The bill could establish enforcement mechanisms, remedies, or procedural protocols for individuals affected by such interference.

Note: The exact statutory text is not provided here, so the summary reflects typical elements found in abortion-interference provisions, such as prohibitions, penalties, enforcement, and definitions.

Who or what would be affected

  • Individuals seeking abortion services in Pennsylvania, who would gain enhanced protections against government actions that obstruct access.
  • Abortion providers and healthcare facilities, which could be affected by prohibitions on government-imposed restrictions or requirements.
  • Government entities and officials at the state or local level responsible for enacting or implementing abortion-related policies.
  • Potentially, third-party providers or advocates who assist individuals seeking abortions, depending on the scope of “interference” in the text.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • The bill is introduced in the 2025-2026 session with a list of co-sponsors, indicating ongoing legislative consideration.
  • As a proposed amendment to Title 18, it would typically proceed through the standard committee process (e.g., Judiciary, or a subcommittee handling crimes and abortions), with potential hearings, amendments, and votes in both chambers.
  • If passed by both the Pennsylvania House and Senate, it would require the governor’s signature to become law, or potentially face veto or override considerations.

Practical implications

  • If enacted, the bill could create clearer legal standards to challenge or deter government actions that impede abortion access.
  • It may contribute to a broader legal framework in Pennsylvania addressing reproductive rights and state involvement in abortion decisions.
  • The precise impact would depend on the final language, including how broadly “Commonwealth interference” is defined and what penalties or remedies are specified.

Notes

  • Specific statutory text and defined terms (e.g., “interference,” penalties, exemptions) are not provided here. For a precise understanding, one should review the bill’s enacted language, committee reports, fiscal impact statements, and any amendments adopted during the legislative process.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.