The proposed bill introduces the West Virginia Chemical Abortion Prohibition Act, which establishes specific offenses related to the provision of chemical abortions by healthcare providers. It stipulates that any healthcare provider who knowingly provides or attempts to provide a chemical abortion without a physical examination, without being present at the location, without scheduling a follow-up visit, and without providing necessary disposal kits, may face fines up to $1,000 or imprisonment for up to three years. However, exceptions are made for cases where a chemical abortion is necessary to save the life of the mother. The bill also ensures that patients cannot be prosecuted under this section or for conspiracy to violate it.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for the proper disposal of discarded abortion drugs, placing the responsibility on the manufacturers for cleanup and remediation if such drugs are found in wastewater, with penalties of $20,000 for violations. It defines key terms such as "abortion drug," "chemical abortion," and "healthcare provider," and includes a rule of construction regarding ectopic pregnancies, clarifying that the act does not affect their treatment. The bill also contains a severability clause, ensuring that if any part of the act is deemed invalid, the remaining provisions will still be enforceable.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-2S-1, 16-2S-2, 16-2S-3, 16-2S-4, 16-2S-5, 16-2S-6