H.R.589 - FACE Act Repeal Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.589, the FACE Act Repeal Act of 2025, seeks to repeal 18 U.S.C. § 248, which prohibits certain actions that obstruct access to reproductive health services. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on January 21, 2025, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary. The Act also removes the reference to section 248 from the table of sections for chapter 13 of title 18, United States Code.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the FACE Act Repeal Act would eliminate federal prohibitions on obstructing access to clinic entrances. This could lead to increased protests and potential obstruction of access to reproductive health services. The change would apply to any prosecutions pending or initiated after the enactment date.
Potential Benefits
- Could be seen as restoring freedom of speech and assembly rights near clinic entrances.
- May reduce federal government overreach into local law enforcement matters.
- Could lead to decreased legal costs associated with enforcing the FACE Act.
- Aligns with the views of those who believe the FACE Act infringes on First Amendment rights.
- Potentially empowers local authorities to handle related issues without federal intervention.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Could lead to increased obstruction of access to reproductive health services.
- May disproportionately affect women and marginalized communities seeking healthcare.
- Could create a chilling effect on healthcare providers offering reproductive services.
- May increase the burden on local law enforcement to manage protests and potential violence.
- Could be perceived as a setback for reproductive rights and gender equality.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutional alignment is complex. Supporters might argue it aligns with the First Amendment's guarantees of freedom of speech and assembly. Repealing the FACE Act could be seen as removing a restriction on these rights, allowing individuals to protest near clinic entrances.
Opponents might argue that the FACE Act is a necessary restriction to protect the constitutional right to access healthcare, which, while not explicitly mentioned, is argued as a derivative of the right to privacy. The debate centers on balancing freedom of expression with the right to access medical services without obstruction or intimidation.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).