The bill H. 4514 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws regarding abortion counseling for minors by modifying Section 44-41-37. The amendment removes references to judicial bypass procedures, which previously allowed minors to seek an abortion without parental consent under certain circumstances. The updated section will require that any physician or professional counseling a minor about abortion must inform her of the legal procedures to obtain an abortion without consent, while also providing information on accessing prenatal care, adoption services, and mental health counseling.

Additionally, the bill repeals Sections 44-41-32, 44-41-33, and 44-41-34, which specifically outlined the judicial bypass procedures for minors seeking abortions. This legislative change reflects a significant shift in the legal framework surrounding minors' access to abortion services in South Carolina, effectively eliminating the judicial bypass option and altering the counseling requirements for healthcare providers. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
05/06/2025: 44-41-37, 44-41-32
Latest Version: 44-41-37, 44-41-32