A new Massachusetts law that removes previous restrictions on abortions after 24 weeks of pregnancy has created a division among state Democrats, with nine House Democrats voting against the legislation. The Prioritizing Patient Access to Care Act, signed into law by Democratic Gov. Maura Healey, allows physicians to perform abortions later in pregnancy based on their medical judgment and provides increased protection from legal penalties.
Several of the dissenting lawmakers expressed ethical and legal reservations, stating that the bill does not reflect the views of their constituents. State Rep. Jeffrey Turco called the law "extremist and dangerous," asserting that it permits abortion at any stage of pregnancy without restriction, potentially with public funding, up to the moment of birth. Turco also criticized the bill's passage, describing it as rushed and lacking public input, which he believes places it out of step with the majority of Massachusetts residents.
State Rep. Chris Markey voiced concerns about the precedent set by the law, warning of a "slippery slope" and difficult ethical dilemmas for physicians. He suggested the law conflicts with existing case law and may exceed the accepted norms even among those who are generally pro-choice.
State Rep. Dennis Gallagher, who voted against the bill, affirmed his belief that abortion should remain a private decision between a woman and her doctor. However, he argued that when a mother's health is not at risk and there are no severe fetal anomalies, alternatives like adoption should be more strongly encouraged for pregnancies that reach a later stage.
State Rep. Alan Silvia, another pro-life Democrat, stated his consistent opposition to policies that expand abortion access, particularly in later stages of pregnancy. He drew a parallel between societal efforts to protect endangered wildlife and what he perceives as a lack of protection for unborn children.
Governor Healey defended the law, stating its purpose is to ensure that families facing complex medical situations late in pregnancy can receive care in Massachusetts without needing to travel out of state. The bill passed the state House of Representatives with 119 votes in favor and 33 against, largely along party lines, before being signed into law.