Massachusetts Senate passes late-term abortion bill

The United States — Massachusetts State Police state Senate adopted a measure on Friday that would give doctors the final say on whether to perform abortions late in pregnancy, removing the current list of specific reasons and allowing the procedure based on the professional judgment of the physician. The bill now goes to Democratic Governor Maura Healey, who has signed other laws strengthening abortion rights and is expected to sign it. Supporters, including State Representative Christine Forget, argue the change is needed because hospitals have turned away women in cases such as a fetus with a stroke unlikely to survive. Opponents, including Massachusetts Citizens for Life president Myrna Maloney Flynn, contend it would allow abortion until birth and may not prioritize women's safety. The measure is part of a broader post-Roe landscape where some states enforce near-total bans while Democrat-led states expand access. Currently, 13 states enforce bans at all stages of pregnancy, and four bar abortion after about six weeks. United States — Massachusetts State Police has also enacted a shield law protecting telehealth abortion providers. Other recent state laws include a United States — Colorado requirement for colleges to provide abortion pills and an United States — Oklahoma City law making it a felony to buy or sell abortion pills for unlawful purposes.