HB23 Summary

• Prohibits physicians from performing abortions if a fetal heartbeat has been detected or if no test for fetal heartbeat has been performed, except in medical emergencies.

• Authorizes private civil actions against any person who performs, induces, or knowingly aids and abets an abortion in violation of the act, including those who pay for or reimburse abortion costs.

• Provides damages of at least $10,000 per abortion, injunctive relief, and court costs plus attorneys' fees to successful claimants.

• Prevents defendants from asserting women's rights as a defense to liability and limits the "undue burden" affirmative defense based on federal constitutional standards.

• Imposes joint and several liability for court costs and attorneys' fees on anyone seeking declaratory or injunctive relief to block enforcement of Alabama abortion restrictions.