Protecting Individuals with Down Syndrome Act

This bill, currently in committee consideration, would establish new federal criminal offenses related to abortion. Specifically, it would make it illegal to perform an abortion on an unborn child diagnosed with Down syndrome. Violators would face criminal penalties including fines, imprisonment for up to five years, or both.

The bill would also create civil liability for violations, allowing for damages and injunctive relief to be pursued through the courts. However, the woman undergoing the abortion would be protected from both criminal prosecution and civil liability under the bill's provisions.

If enacted, this legislation would represent a significant federal restriction on abortion access based on fetal diagnosis. The bill has been introduced in the Senate but has not yet been voted on by the full chamber.