The bill introduces new safety requirements for reproductive health care in New Mexico, specifically focusing on abortion services. It mandates that, with the exception of medication abortions, all abortions must be performed by licensed physicians in health facilities that are licensed by the health care authority. Additionally, it stipulates that 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 enhance protections against discrimination related to reproductive and gender-affirming health care. It specifies that public bodies cannot deny or interfere with access to reproductive health care, stating that an abortion is considered within the medical standard of care only if performed by a licensed physician in a licensed health facility. The bill also clarifies that health care providers are not obligated to provide services that conflict with their medical judgment or that they are not required to provide under existing laws.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 24-34-3