H.B. 598 - Human Life Protection Act Summary

• Act becomes effective only upon either a U.S. Supreme Court decision upholding state authority to prohibit abortion or adoption of a constitutional amendment authorizing states to prohibit abortion.

• Prohibits any person from purposely causing or inducing an abortion through drugs, instruments, or other means, punishable as a felony of the fourth degree with minimum one-half to two years imprisonment and up to $2,500 fine.

• Provides affirmative defense for physicians who perform abortions determined medically necessary to prevent pregnant person's death or serious risk of substantial irreversible bodily function impairment, subject to strict procedural requirements including dual physician certification and neonatal services availability.

• Prohibits manufacturing, selling, or distributing drugs or devices intended for abortion purposes, punishable as a first-degree misdemeanor.

• Allows pregnant persons who undergo unlawful abortions to sue for wrongful death of unborn child, recovering minimum $10,000 damages plus court costs and attorney's fees; individuals receiving abortions are immune from prosecution.