The proposed bill establishes new legal requirements regarding the care of infants who are born alive, particularly in the context of abortion procedures. It defines "born alive" and "infant," mandating that all infants born alive must receive appropriate medical care and treatment. The bill prohibits any person from denying nourishment or medical care to a born alive infant with the intent to cause death. It also outlines the responsibilities of healthcare providers in the event of a live birth during an abortion, requiring immediate medical attention and reporting to emergency services if necessary. Additionally, the bill treats born alive infants as legal persons under state law, ensuring they have the same rights to medical care.
To enforce these provisions, the bill introduces mandatory reporting requirements for healthcare practitioners who witness violations, establishes criminal penalties for those who intentionally harm a born alive infant, and allows for civil remedies for women affected by such violations. Furthermore, it creates a task force to monitor born alive births and mandates monthly inspections by the Department of Health at facilities that perform elective abortions to ensure compliance with the new regulations.