Summary
A new bill in Tennessee proposes to allow the death penalty for women who have abortions by charging them with fetal homicide. The bill was introduced by two Republican lawmakers and is currently under consideration. This comes after a Supreme Court ruling that gave states more control over their abortion laws.
Key Facts
- The proposed bill is called House Bill 570 and Senate Bill 738.
- It suggests charging women who have abortions with fetal homicide, which can lead to life imprisonment or the death penalty.
- The bill was introduced by Tennessee state Representative Jody Barrett and state Senator Mark Pody.
- The bill is currently referred to the House Population Health Subcommittee for consideration.
- Under current Tennessee law, abortions are only legal if the mother's life is at risk, but not in cases of rape or incest.
- Performing an abortion in Tennessee is classified as a class C felony, which can lead to up to 15 years in prison for doctors.
- The proposed law would take effect on July 1 if it passes.
- The current law already restricts abortions once a fetal heartbeat is detected, usually around six weeks of pregnancy.
