Several states have introduced bills reconceptualizing abortion as “homicide,” potentially allowing full prosecution of abortion patients. The Pregnancy Justice group reports a rise in such bills, prompting unease about extreme anti-abortion measures. These proposals align with efforts to establish “fetal personhood,” which could impact broader legal frameworks.
Indiana, North Dakota, Oklahoma, and South Carolina have introduced “homicide” bills, with Oklahoma’s proposal also restricting speech around abortion. Lawmakers in multiple states are also targeting abortion pills and minors’ access to abortion, with some seeking to ban mailing pills and impose severe, life-threatening penalties. The legislative push follows Donald Trump’s return to power, emboldening anti-abortion efforts at the state level.
Compiled from: Carter Sherman, "As Trump returns, state lawmakers pursue bills that would treat abortion as homicide,” The Guardian, Jan. 23, 2025.