The bill amends the Arkansas Human Life Protection Act and the Arkansas Unborn Child Protection Act to introduce specific exceptions for abortions in cases of incest, rape, fetal abnormalities incompatible with life, and medical emergencies that threaten the health of the mother. The definition of "medical emergency" is expanded to include conditions that endanger the health of a pregnant woman, not just her life. This change is reflected in both acts, where the language now specifies that an abortion may be necessary to preserve the "life or health" of the woman.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that abortions may be performed if the pregnancy results from incest or rape, provided that a report has been filed with law enforcement. The amendments also clarify that abortions are permissible in cases of fetal abnormalities that are incompatible with life. These changes aim to provide clearer guidelines and protections for women facing difficult circumstances during pregnancy.

Statutes affected:
HB 1880: 5-61-303(3), 5-61-304(a), 5-61-403(3), 5-61-404(a)