The proposed bill, if enacted, would amend current statutes regarding partial-birth abortions by establishing a mandatory reporting requirement for medical personnel. Specifically, it would require any employee, contractor, or volunteer in a medical facility who has direct knowledge of a partial-birth abortion to report this information immediately to the county attorney where the procedure occurred. The report must include all identifying information known to the reporting individual about the physician and medical facility involved. Failure to report would be classified as a class 6 felony. Additionally, the bill would eliminate the previous exception that allowed partial-birth abortions when necessary to save the life of the mother, asserting that such procedures are never medically necessary.

Furthermore, the bill includes several legislative findings that emphasize the need for accountability among all medical personnel involved in partial-birth abortions, not just the performing physician. It argues that silence among medical staff enables lawbreaking and shields perpetrators from justice. The bill also states that women should not be exempt from civil or criminal liability related to partial-birth abortions, highlighting the gravity of the procedure and the need for a legal framework that recognizes the value of the life of the unborn child.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 13-3603.01
House Engrossed Version: 13-3603.01