DeSantis Signs Florida’s 6-Week Abortion Ban Into Law

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has signed into law a new bill that bans abortions after six weeks. The Florida House passed the law shortly before the Governor approved it. According to the Governor, the “Heartbeat Protection Act” will expand pro-life protections and provide extra support for young families and mothers.

His office has already released a photo showing DeSantis signing the bill, surrounded by dozens of lawmakers. Compared to other states such as California and New York, this new law aims to transform Florida into a “pro-family” state by defending the dignity of human life.

This isn’t the first ban that DeSantis has signed. In 2022, he signed a 15-week abortion ban, and he indicated support for further restrictions on the practice. However, the new law will only take effect if the 15-week ban is upheld in an ongoing legal challenge that is currently before the state Supreme Court, which is controlled by conservatives.

The new legislation is called the “Heartbeat Protection Act” and will only allow certain exceptions. Abortion is allowed if it is “necessary to save the pregnant woman’s life or avert a serious risk of substantial and irreversible physical impairment of a major bodily function of the pregnant woman other than a psychological condition.” The declaration must be made in writing by two physicians or one physician when the other is not available. Women are also allowed to have abortions if their pregnancy is less than 15 weeks and their unborn child has a fatal abnormality. This must be certified in writing by two physicians.

For women who are victims of rape, incest, or human trafficking, they may obtain abortions if they are less than 15 weeks pregnant. To do so, they will have to provide legal documentation showing that they are victims of one of the mentioned crimes. If anyone performs or actively participates in an illegal abortion, they are subject to punishment as a third-degree felony charge. If the woman dies as a result of an illegal abortion, the performer or active participant will face a second-degree felony charge.

In addition, the new legislation blocks state funds from being used to help women obtain abortions in other states. It also prohibits the use of telehealth or mail to receive drugs that can induce abortion.

The bill was first passed by the state Senate in an April 3 vote of 26-13, and the law was approved by the state House in a 70-40 vote on the same day.