NC H31

Prohibits abortion after a detectable human heartbeat is determined in the unborn child, unless there is a medical emergency as defined by G.S. 90-21.81(5)

Allows abortions during the first 20 weeks of pregnancy prior to heartbeat detection without restriction on facility type or physician qualifications

Requires physicians performing abortions after 16 weeks of pregnancy to record the method used to determine gestational age, measurement results, and ultrasound images, and submit this information to the Department of Health and Human Services

Requires physicians performing abortions after detection of a detectable heartbeat in medical emergencies to document and submit the findings that justified the medical emergency determination to the Department of Health and Human Services

Protects physicians, nurses, and other health care providers from being required to perform or participate in abortions based on moral, ethical, or religious objections, and prohibits disciplinary action for such refusal

Defines "qualified physician" as one with board certification in obstetrics/gynecology, sufficient training in safe abortion care, or a physician performing an abortion in a medical emergency

Becomes effective December 1, 2021