Senate Bill No. 1438 aims to prohibit female genital mutilation (FGM) by making it a class D felony to perform such procedures on individuals under the age of eighteen. The bill defines FGM as the circumcision, excision, or infibulation of any part of the labia majora, labia minora, or clitoris. Exceptions to this prohibition are provided for surgical operations deemed necessary for the health of the individual, performed by a licensed physician, or for medical purposes related to labor or childbirth by licensed healthcare professionals. Notably, the bill specifies that operations cannot be justified as necessary for health or medical purposes if they are based on beliefs related to custom or ritual.

The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, and carries penalties of up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $5,000, or both for those convicted of performing FGM. The legislation also anticipates potential fiscal impacts, including costs to the Department of Correction and the Judicial Department for incarceration or probation, as well as potential revenue gains from fines imposed on offenders. The bill received unanimous support from the Judiciary Committee, reflecting a strong legislative commitment to protecting minors from harmful practices associated with FGM.