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HB 108

Public Health - Abortion (Heartbeat Bill)

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Ric Metzgar

Maryland bill would ban abortion once fetal cardiac activity is detected at approximately 6 weeks, restricting access before most pregnancies are detected.

Hearing 2/27 at 2:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 108

Legislative bill overview

HB 108 is a "heartbeat bill" that would restrict abortion access in Maryland by prohibiting the procedure once a fetal heartbeat is detectable, typically around 6 weeks of pregnancy. The bill represents a significant departure from Maryland's current status as a state with relatively permissive abortion access protections.

Why is this important

This legislation would fundamentally alter abortion policy in Maryland, a state where abortion access has been legally protected. The timing of fetal heartbeat detection often occurs before many people know they are pregnant, making this restriction substantially more limiting than current law. The bill's passage would place Maryland in contrast with neighboring states and could reshape reproductive healthcare availability in the region.

Potential points of contention

  • Medical definition disputes: "Heartbeat" detection at 6 weeks involves electrical activity rather than a functionally developed heart; medical professionals disagree on whether this terminology is scientifically accurate or medically meaningful
  • Pregnancy detection timing: Most people discover pregnancy after 6 weeks, creating a practical barrier to abortion access under this timeline regardless of circumstances
  • Constitutional and precedent questions: The bill may face legal challenges regarding state constitutional protections and evolving federal abortion jurisprudence following the Dobbs decision
  • Exception scope: Details about exceptions for rape, incest, fetal abnormality, or maternal health are critical but unclear from available information

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

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