The "Human Life Protection Act" proposed in South Carolina aims to prohibit all abortions in the state, with the sole exception being for medical emergencies. The bill introduces new provisions, including Section 44-41-615, which criminalizes the administration of substances or procedures intended to cause an abortion, establishing penalties of up to two years in prison and fines of $10,000 for violators. Additionally, Section 44-41-685 is added to ensure the anonymity of women involved in legal proceedings related to abortions, requiring courts to protect their identities unless consent is given for disclosure.

The bill also amends several existing sections of the South Carolina Code, including the repeal of judicial bypass procedures for minors seeking abortions and the removal of exceptions for rape, incest, and fatal fetal anomalies. It further clarifies the definitions of terms related to abortion and reproductive health, such as "selective reduction" and "fatal fetal anomaly." The legislation grants the General Assembly the right to intervene in legal challenges against the act, reinforcing its intent to restrict abortion access while addressing related legal and medical procedures. The act will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 44-41-615, 44-41-685, 44-41-610, 44-41-37, 44-41-60, 44-41-32, 44-41-650
02/05/2025: 44-41-615, 44-41-685, 44-41-610, 44-41-37, 44-41-60, 44-41-32, 44-41-650
Latest Version: 44-41-615, 44-41-685, 44-41-610, 44-41-37, 44-41-60, 44-41-32, 44-41-650