House Bill No. proposes a constitutional amendment to Article I, Section 20.1 of the Louisiana Constitution, focusing on reproductive healthcare decision-making. The amendment aims to establish rights and protections for individuals regarding their pregnancy-related choices, explicitly prohibiting government interference in these decisions. The current language, which states that the constitution shall not secure or protect a right to abortion or require its funding, will be deleted. In its place, new provisions will be inserted to affirm that all persons have the right to make decisions about reproductive healthcare, including contraception, pregnancy continuation, and abortion care, while also ensuring they are treated with dignity and respect.
Additionally, the proposed amendment includes protections against state penalties or discrimination for individuals exercising their reproductive rights or for those assisting them. It specifies that no person shall face prosecution or punishment for pregnancy-related outcomes, such as miscarriage or abortion. The amendment will be submitted to voters for approval in a statewide election scheduled for November 5, 2024, allowing the electorate to decide on the proposed changes to the constitution.