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LD 1930

An Act Regarding Acts Of Violence Committed Against A Pregnant Woman

132nd Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Steve Bishop and 7 co-sponsors

Failed Maine bill to establish enhanced legal protections and penalties for violence against pregnant women; rejected 20-14 by Senate on June 10, 2025.

Placed in Legislative Files (DEAD)
#assault #crimes #pregnantwomen
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · LD 1930

Legislative bill overview

LD 1930 sought to establish or enhance legal protections and penalties related to acts of violence committed against pregnant women in Maine. The bill was introduced with bipartisan sponsorship but failed to advance, receiving a "Ought Not to Pass" recommendation that was accepted by the Maine Senate on June 10, 2025.

Why is this important

Violence against pregnant women carries documented health risks to both mother and fetus, including miscarriage, premature birth, and maternal injury or death. Legislation in this area typically aims to either create specific criminal penalties, enhance existing ones, or establish procedural protections for pregnant victims—questions that directly affect public safety policy and criminal law.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of enhancement: Disagreement over whether existing assault/battery laws adequately address pregnant victims or whether separate, enhanced penalties are necessary and constitutional
  • Definitional challenges: Questions about how to legally define "pregnant woman" for statute purposes (timing of knowledge, proof requirements) and whether this creates evidentiary burdens
  • Competing legislative priorities: The 20-14 vote margin suggests genuine division on whether this was the appropriate legislative vehicle or whether other approaches to pregnant victim protection were preferable

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

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