This bill introduces significant changes to the legal framework surrounding the nonconsensual provision of medication intended to terminate a pregnancy and the classification of fetal homicide. It allows for a first-degree murder charge to be brought against individuals who administer such medication to a pregnant woman without her knowledge and consent. Additionally, the bill amends the definition of when a homicide charge can be applied to a fetus, changing the threshold from 20 weeks of gestation to the point of conception, or in the case of in vitro fertilization, at the time of implantation.

The specific legal language changes include the insertion of a new provision in RSA 630:1-a, I(b)(4) that defines a fetus as a victim of homicide when medication is administered without consent, and the modification of the definition of "fetus" in RSA 630:1-a, V(b)(1) to encompass an unborn offspring from conception or implantation until birth. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2027, and its fiscal impact is currently indeterminable, potentially affecting state and local judicial and correctional systems due to changes in criminal penalties and prosecution costs.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 630:1-a
HB1333 text: 630:1-a