This bill establishes an abortion approval committee in North Dakota and outlines a new framework for abortion procedures, including an emergency medical exception. It amends various sections of the North Dakota Century Code, particularly concerning consent and reporting requirements, while repealing certain existing abortion restrictions. Key changes include the modification of the definition of "abortion" and the introduction of new terms such as "fetus" and "abortion facility." The bill emphasizes informed consent, requiring physicians to provide specific information to women seeking abortions and to certify that consent has been obtained, while also mandating the publication of materials to inform women about available support services and associated risks.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that physicians must inform women of the medical reasons for an abortion and obtain written consent from a parent or guardian for those under eighteen and unmarried. It allows for abortions in medical emergencies without prior committee approval and establishes the abortion approval committee within licensed hospitals to assess the medical necessity of proposed procedures. The bill also changes terminology from "unborn child" to "fetus," requires abortion facilities to maintain detailed records, and mandates annual reporting by the committee on the cases considered and approved, while ensuring confidentiality in discussions and medical records.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 12.1-19.1-03, 14-02.1-02, 14-02.1-02.1, 14-02.1-02.2, 14-02.1-03, 14-02.1-03.1, 14-02.1-05, 14-02.1-07, 14-02.1-08, 14-02.1-09, 14-10-15, 14-10-19