Massachusetts Expands Abortion Rights with New Legislation

Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey faced applause and smiles as she signed a new law removing the state’s gestational limits on abortion. This move makes Massachusetts the tenth state to permit abortion procedures up to birth.

The Prioritizing Patient Access to Care Act grants health care workers more discretion in deciding whether to perform late-term abortions without risking legal consequences under previous state restrictions. This law is intended to support families with medical complications in late pregnancy. These could include maternal health issues or fatal diagnoses.

At the bill signing, Healey promised to maintain abortion safety, legality, and accessibility in Massachusetts throughout her tenure as governor. She declared, “Health care decisions should be made between women and families and their doctors, not politicians.” The law is set to take effect in 90 days.

Until now, Massachusetts restricted abortions after 24 weeks with limited exceptions. By joining states such as Alaska, Colorado, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Vermont, and the District of Columbia, Massachusetts removes gestational age limits on abortion.

Governor Healey emphasized that this signing acts as a “shield” against national attempts, notably under former President Donald Trump and current Republicans, to reduce abortion protections following the Supreme Court’s reversal of Roe v. Wade. She stated, “It is up to the states to lead,” ensuring access to necessary healthcare for women and families.