Bill bars states from punishing residents who cross lines for abortion care

What does this do?

HR 4099 would make it illegal for state officials or anyone enforcing state law to block a person from traveling to another state to obtain an abortion. It also prohibits states from stopping out-of-state doctors from providing that care or from blocking FDA-approved abortion medications from crossing state lines. People and organizations that help someone travel for an abortion would receive the same protections.

Who does it affect?

The bill affects people in states with abortion restrictions who seek care elsewhere, as well as doctors, clinics, and helpers in states where abortion is legal who serve out-of-state patients. It also directly affects state governments and officials who might otherwise enforce their state's abortion laws against residents who leave.

Why does it matter?

Enforcement could come through the U.S. Attorney General suing in federal court or through lawsuits filed by individuals who are harmed, with possible recovery of financial losses, emotional harm damages, and legal fees. The bill does not change whether abortion is legal or illegal within any state, limiting its effect to situations involving interstate travel or shipment.

Where does it stand?