H.R.682 - Heartbeat Protection Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.682, the Heartbeat Protection Act of 2025, seeks to amend Title 18 of the United States Code to prohibit abortions where a fetal heartbeat is detectable. The bill introduces new section 1532, which outlines the offense, exceptions, documentation requirements, and data retention policies related to abortions. It specifies penalties for physicians who perform abortions without checking for a fetal heartbeat or after detecting one.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would significantly restrict abortion access across the United States, impacting women's reproductive rights and healthcare providers' practices. It would likely lead to legal challenges based on constitutional grounds, particularly concerning the right to privacy and bodily autonomy. The bill also introduces documentation requirements and potential legal liabilities for physicians.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially reduces the number of abortions performed.
- Provides exceptions for cases of rape and incest if certain conditions are met.
- Offers a hearing process for physicians facing charges to demonstrate medical necessity.
- May be seen as upholding the value of potential human life by some.
- Requires documentation and data retention, which could provide more comprehensive data on abortion procedures.
Potential Disadvantages
- Restricts women's reproductive rights and bodily autonomy.
- Creates potential legal liabilities for physicians, potentially discouraging them from providing abortion services.
- May disproportionately affect women in rural areas or those with limited access to healthcare.
- The definition of exceptions may be considered too narrow by some.
- Could lead to increased costs for women seeking abortions due to travel to other states or legal challenges.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutional alignment is highly contested. Supporters may argue it aligns with the government's interest in protecting potential life. Opponents would argue it infringes upon the right to privacy, as established in Roe v. Wade and later modified by Planned Parenthood v. Casey, potentially violating the Due Process Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. The bill's restrictions on abortion access could also face challenges under the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment if they disproportionately affect certain groups.
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).