The bill amends Arkansas law regarding criminal abortion by introducing a new offense termed "coerced criminal abortion by means of fraud." This new section, designated as 5-61-103, defines key terms related to abortion, including "abortion," "abortion-inducing drug," and outlines the circumstances under which a person can be charged with this offense. Specifically, it states that a person commits this offense if they knowingly administer an abortion-inducing drug to a pregnant woman without her knowledge or consent, with the intent to cause an abortion.
If convicted of this offense, the individual would be guilty of a Class B felony. Additionally, the bill clarifies that prosecution under this new section does not preclude prosecution under other laws if the use of an abortion-inducing drug results in the death or bodily injury of the pregnant woman or an unborn child. This legislation aims to enhance protections for pregnant women against fraudulent actions related to abortion.