Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act

Plain-English Summary: Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act

This bill would make it a federal crime for an adult to transport a minor (someone under 18) across state lines to obtain an abortion without first notifying or getting consent from the minor's parent or guardian, when that notification or consent would have been required in the minor's home state. In other words, if a teenager lives in a state that requires parental involvement before she can get an abortion, an adult other than her parent could not legally drive or otherwise take her to another state specifically to get around that requirement.

The bill would also require abortion providers in other states to notify a minor's parents before performing the procedure, even if the state where the clinic is located does not have its own parental notification law. This would effectively extend a minor's home state parental involvement requirements beyond that state's borders. There are some exceptions built into the bill, typically including situations involving medical emergencies or cases where the minor herself is traveling without an adult assisting her.

This legislation primarily affects minors seeking abortions, the adults who might accompany them, and healthcare providers who perform abortions. Parents and guardians in states with parental notification laws would have their existing state-level rights reinforced on a national level. Adults who violate the law could face federal criminal penalties, including fines and potential imprisonment.

The bill was recently introduced in the Senate and has been referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee, where it will be reviewed before any further action is taken.