Hello, ____,
I hope you’re doing well. I wanted to reach out and update you on the latest developments with HB813. As you know, the bill has been making its way through the legislature. HB813 passed the Louisiana House Appropriations Committee in a 7-2 vote and will now go to the full House for debate tomorrow, May 12, 2022.
If passed, HB813 would have a profound impact on our medical practices. It would criminalize performing an abortion, even in a medical emergency, effectively limiting our ability to provide comprehensive care to our patients. Performing or assisting with abortion, in any case, would be classified as a homicide. This would create a liability issue for our practices, as we would be unable to ensure that our patients receive the care they need.
HB813 has worrying implications beyond just abortion. It could punish those participating in in-vitro fertilization, as not all eggs fertilized during IVF may be successful in terms of bringing about pregnancy, meaning some would be “killed” as defined by HB813. This bill could also potentially be used to punish those who take birth control pills, which prevent fertilization, or emergency contraception methods like Plan B. HB813 would give officials unprecedented power over women’s reproductive choices.
The bill also includes language authorizing impeachment or removal of state judges who attempt to stay or overrule any of its provisions, which could affect the independence of the judiciary.
Act 433, which was passed in 2006, makes HB813 unnecessary. Act 433 is a trigger law that would go into effect immediately if the Supreme Court reverses Roe v. Wade, in whole or in part, or if there is an amendment added to the U.S. Constitution, giving the state of Louisiana the authority to prohibit abortion.
Our goal is to protect your job and your ability to do that job, regardless of philosophy. If you have concerns about HB813, we encourage you to reach out to your legislators. Their contact information is included below.
Thank you for your time and dedication to your patients.
Sincerely,
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
