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Bill

HD 3554

An Act protecting the health of the mother and a born alive fetus after the second trimester

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Colleen Garry

Restricts Massachusetts abortions after second trimester except for maternal health/life risks, marking a sharp policy reversal in a progressive abortion-access state.

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Bill Summary · HD 3554

Legislative bill overview

HD 3554 would restrict abortion access in Massachusetts after the second trimester of pregnancy, with exceptions for cases where continuation poses a risk to the mother's health or life. The bill also includes requirements related to fetal viability and medical procedures for pregnancies terminating after the second trimester. This represents a significant departure from Massachusetts' current law, which permits abortion throughout pregnancy when the mother's health is at risk.

Why is this important

Massachusetts has been a sanctuary state for abortion access, and this bill would create one of the most restrictive abortion frameworks in New England. The legislation directly challenges the state's existing legal protections and could affect abortion-seeking residents from other states with stricter bans, as well as reshape reproductive healthcare policy in a state known for progressive policies on this issue.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition and scope of "health" exception: The bill's language around maternal health risks may be narrower than current Massachusetts law, potentially creating uncertainty for physicians about what qualifies as a protected exception
  • Conflict with existing state law: Massachusetts' 1994 law permits abortion when necessary to preserve the mother's health; this bill's relationship to and potential superseding of that framework is unclear
  • Enforcement and viability determinations: Requirements around determining fetal viability and reporting could create legal exposure for healthcare providers and affect access to time-sensitive care

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

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