The bill introduces new safety requirements for reproductive health care in New Mexico, specifically focusing on abortion procedures. It mandates that, except for medication abortions, all abortions must be performed by licensed physicians in health facilities authorized by the health care authority. Additionally, medication abortions can only be prescribed by licensed physicians and dispensed by licensed pharmacies. Violations of these provisions could result in civil penalties of up to $5,000. The bill also defines "medication abortion" as the use or prescription of any drug intended to induce an abortion.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing legislation to clarify that public bodies cannot discriminate against individuals based on their use or refusal of reproductive health care or gender-affirming services. It specifies that an abortion is considered within the medical standard of care only if performed by a licensed physician in an authorized health facility. The bill reinforces protections against prosecution or punishment related to pregnancy decisions and ensures that no laws or policies conflict with the Reproductive and Gender-Affirming Health Care Freedom Act. It also clarifies that health care providers are not obligated to provide services outside their legal duties or against their medical judgment.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 24-34-3