The "Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act" seeks to prohibit abortions after 20 weeks of fertilization, with specific exceptions. Under this bill, it is unlawful for anyone to perform or attempt an abortion unless they are a licensed physician who has determined the probable post-fertilization age of the unborn child. This determination must involve inquiries and medical examinations deemed necessary by a reasonably prudent physician. The bill outlines exceptions to the prohibition, including cases where the abortion is necessary to save the life of the pregnant woman, or if the pregnancy results from reported rape or incest, particularly involving minors.

Additionally, the bill mandates that physicians follow specific procedures if an abortion is performed under these exceptions, including ensuring the best opportunity for the unborn child's survival if born alive. It requires documentation of reported rapes or incest, informed consent from the woman seeking the abortion, and annual reporting of abortion statistics to the National Center for Health Statistics. Violations of the bill's provisions would result in criminal charges, while women undergoing abortions in violation of the law would be immune from liability. The legislation is based on the premise that unborn children are capable of feeling pain by 20 weeks post-fertilization, emphasizing the state's interest in protecting unborn lives.