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HD 1317

An Act relative to abortion care for young people

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Christine Barber and 9 co-sponsors

HD 1317 - An Act relative to abortion care for young people OverviewBill Number: HD 1317 Title: An Act relative to abortion care for young people Status: Proposed bill Introduce

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Bill Summary · HD 1317

HD 1317 - An Act relative to abortion care for young people

Overview

Bill Number: HD 1317
Title: An Act relative to abortion care for young people
Status: Proposed bill
Introduced: November 29, 2025

Purpose and Intent

This proposed legislation aims to expand access to abortion services for minors in the state. The bill's sponsors argue that current laws create unnecessary barriers for young people seeking reproductive healthcare, and that this disproportionately impacts marginalized communities. The intent is to empower minors to make informed decisions about their own bodies and futures without undue parental or judicial involvement.

Key Provisions

  • Allows minors to consent to and receive abortion services without parental or guardian notification or consent
  • Prohibits the state from requiring minors to obtain court approval or a judicial bypass to access abortion care
  • Requires health insurance plans, including Medicaid, to cover the full cost of abortion services for minors
  • Protects the confidentiality of minors' abortion-related medical records and information
  • Establishes a state fund to provide financial assistance for minors seeking abortion services

Affected Parties and Impacts

  • Minors (under age 18) seeking abortion services would have expanded access and autonomy
  • Parents/guardians would lose the ability to be notified or provide consent for a minor's abortion
  • Healthcare providers would be required to offer abortion services to consenting minors
  • State Medicaid and insurance programs would need to adjust coverage policies
  • Advocacy groups on both sides of the abortion debate are likely to be impacted

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

The bill was introduced in the state legislature on November 29, 2025 and has been referred to the Joint Committee on Public Health for initial review. If approved by the committee, the bill would then proceed to a full floor vote in the House of Representatives. Given the controversial nature of the issue, the bill's path to passage remains uncertain and could face significant opposition. If enacted, the new law would take effect 90 days after the governor's signature.

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

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