AR HB1439

Creates the "Cherish Act" prohibiting abortion after 18 weeks' gestation except in medical emergencies or cases of rape or incest.

Requires physicians to determine and document probable gestational age according to standard medical practices before performing an abortion.

Physicians performing abortions after 18 weeks' gestation in medical emergencies must file a report with the Department of Health within 15 days containing abortion method, gestational age, medical indications, and health consequences.

Violators are guilty of a Class D felony; physicians face license suspension or revocation by the Arkansas State Medical Board; women are exempt from prosecution.

Pregnant women may sue abortion providers for actual and punitive damages; prosecuting attorneys and the Attorney General may seek injunctive relief; prevailing plaintiffs recover attorney's fees.