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Bill

SB 174

Enacting the abolish abortion Kansas act to make all abortions subject to criminal prosecution for violation of Alexa's law and to remove certain exceptions to the cause of action for the wrongful death of an unborn child when such death is caused by an abortion.

2025-2026 Regular Session

Kansas bill would criminalize all abortions and expose abortion providers to wrongful death lawsuits, eliminating current legal exceptions and protections.

Died in Committee
#abortion #crimes #punishmentandcriminalprocedure #namedacts
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Bill Summary · SB 174

Legislative bill overview

SB 174 would criminalize all abortions in Kansas under a statute named "Alexa's Law" and modify wrongful death statutes to allow civil action against abortion providers regardless of current legal exceptions. The bill removes existing carve-outs that currently permit abortion under certain circumstances.

Why is this important

This legislation would represent one of the most restrictive abortion laws in the nation if enacted, potentially criminalizing physicians and pregnant individuals. It would fundamentally alter Kansas's current abortion framework, which has existing exceptions and legal protections for medical providers acting within current law.

Potential points of contention

  • Criminal liability scope: Ambiguity over whether pregnant individuals, doctors, or both would face criminal prosecution, and what penalties would apply
  • Medical exceptions: The bill's reference to removing "certain exceptions" leaves unclear whether life-of-mother, severe fetal abnormality, or rape/incest exceptions would be eliminated
  • Constitutional challenges: Likely conflicts with current judicial interpretations of abortion rights and due process protections that may affect enforceability
  • Healthcare delivery impact: Potential chilling effect on emergency medical care and obstetric services if providers fear criminal liability
  • Retroactive liability: The wrongful death provision could expose past abortion providers to civil suits under changed legal standards

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

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