The proposed bill, known as the "Wyoming Pregnancy Center Autonomy and Rights of Expression (CARE) Act," aims to protect pregnancy centers from governmental oversight or regulation based on their anti-abortion stance. It establishes that the state and its political subdivisions cannot enact laws or policies that would require pregnancy centers to perform or refer for abortions, provide abortion-inducing drugs, or counsel in favor of abortion. The bill also defines key terms related to abortion and pregnancy centers, emphasizing their role in providing support and resources for women facing unexpected pregnancies. Additionally, it highlights the growing challenges pregnancy centers have faced since the Supreme Court's decision in *Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization*, which overturned *Roe v. Wade*.
The bill includes provisions for legal remedies, allowing pregnancy centers or individuals harmed by violations of the act to seek civil action for damages, with the potential for significant financial recovery. It also grants members of the legislature the right to intervene in legal challenges to the act's constitutionality. Furthermore, the bill amends existing law to clarify the liability of governmental entities in relation to this act. The effective date for the bill is set for July 1, 2026.
Statutes affected: 26LSO-0136 v0.4: 1-39-104