The bill S. 27 seeks to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by establishing comprehensive regulations surrounding reproductive rights, particularly concerning abortion. It affirms that a woman may have an abortion prior to the viability of her fetus and specifies conditions under which abortions may be performed post-viability, such as to protect the woman's health or in cases of rape or incest. The legislation mandates the availability of assistive reproductive technologies and contraceptives, ensures quality prenatal and postnatal healthcare, and expands Medicaid to support these services. Additionally, it allows physicians to prescribe abortion-inducing drugs via telemedicine and requires health insurance policies that cover pregnancy and childbirth to also include coverage for abortions and related services.

The bill introduces specific provisions for minors seeking abortions, including the requirement for informed consent from a parent or guardian while allowing minors to petition the court for permission to obtain an abortion without consent. It emphasizes the confidentiality of a woman's fertility data and prohibits the dissemination of misleading information regarding pregnancy. The legislation also protects healthcare providers who refuse to participate in abortion procedures based on personal objections and establishes reporting requirements for abortions performed in the state. Notably, the bill repeals existing laws related to abortions, indicating a significant shift in the legal framework governing reproductive health in South Carolina, while aiming to enhance access to reproductive healthcare and protect the rights and privacy of minors.

Statutes affected:
12/11/2024: 44-140-10, 40-47-37, 38-71-48, 38-71-49, 59-32-10
Latest Version: 44-140-10, 40-47-37, 38-71-48, 38-71-49, 59-32-10