Massachusetts is now among the states that permit abortions up to birth, following the signing of a new law by Democratic Gov. Maura Healey. The Prioritizing Patient Access to Care Act removes previous gestational age limits on abortion procedures in the state.
Under the new legislation, health care providers will have increased discretion to perform abortions later in pregnancy without facing legal repercussions. Healey stated that the law aims to ensure individuals who encounter medical complications or fatal diagnoses late in pregnancy can obtain necessary care in Massachusetts, rather than needing to travel out of state.
"We believe that health care decisions should be made between women and families and their doctors, not politicians," Healey said during the bill signing event. "Abortion will remain safe. It will remain legal, and it will remain accessible here in Massachusetts. That's my commitment to you."
The bill is set to take effect in 90 days. Previously, Massachusetts law generally prohibited abortions after 24 weeks of gestation, with limited exceptions.
With this change, Massachusetts joins Alaska, Colorado, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, and Vermont, as well as the District of Columbia, in removing specific gestational age limits for abortions. Healey framed the legislation as a protective measure against national efforts to restrict abortion access following the Supreme Court's overturning of Roe v. Wade, emphasizing that states should lead in ensuring continued access to reproductive healthcare.
"It is up to the states to lead," Healey stated. "And as governor, I promise that no matter what Donald Trump or Republicans in Congress or the Supreme Court does, we're going to continue to make sure that women and families have access to the health care that they need, right here in Massachusetts."