SB951 Summary

• Amends Arkansas Code § 20-16-907 to clarify that performing an abortion in violation of state law is a Class A misdemeanor and grounds for civil action by persons whose consent is required.

• Establishes that physicians who knowingly or recklessly perform unauthorized abortions are subject to disciplinary action by the Arkansas State Medical Board.

• Protects women from criminal penalties or civil liability for undergoing or attempting to undergo an abortion.

• Creates new civil remedies in Arkansas Code § 20-16-909 allowing actual and punitive damages lawsuits against abortion providers who violate state law, with standing for the woman who had the abortion, the father of the unborn child, or a grandparent of the unborn child.

• Provides that prevailing plaintiffs in civil actions shall recover reasonable attorney's fees, and defendants may recover attorney's fees if the court finds the plaintiff's suit was frivolous and brought in bad faith.