# Plain Language Summary: Protecting Individuals with Down Syndrome Act

This bill would make it a federal crime for doctors to perform abortions when they know or suspect that a fetus has Down syndrome. The law would apply specifically when a pregnant woman is seeking an abortion because of a Down syndrome diagnosis or suspected diagnosis. Before performing any abortion, doctors would be required to ask patients whether they're aware of any test results or diagnoses indicating Down syndrome, and if they are, doctors must inform them that such abortions are now prohibited under this law.

The bill creates both criminal and civil penalties for violations. Doctors who perform these abortions could face up to five years in prison and fines. Additionally, the law allows multiple people to sue for damages—including the pregnant woman herself, the father of the fetus (with some exceptions), and grandparents if the woman is a minor. These lawsuits could result in money damages for physical and psychological injuries, plus punitive damages meant to punish the wrongdoing. Medical professionals who know about violations but don't report them to law enforcement could face up to one year in prison. The bill also requires courts to prioritize these cases and move them quickly through the system.

One important protection in the bill shields the pregnant woman from criminal prosecution or civil liability—she cannot be prosecuted or sued for having the abortion, even if it violates the law. The bill also includes privacy protections to keep the woman's identity confidential in court proceedings unless she agrees otherwise. Additionally, violations of this law would be treated as discrimination under federal disability law, which could result in loss of federal funding for healthcare providers or facilities that violate it.

Protecting Individuals with Down Syndrome Act

Estes, Ron

Protecting Individuals with Down Syndrome Act This bill creates new federal crimes related to the performance of an abortion on an unborn child who has Down syndrome. It subjects a violator to criminal penalties&#8212;a fine, a prison term of up to five years, or both. It also authorizes civil remedies, including damages and injunctive relief. A woman who undergoes such an abortion may not be prosecuted or held civilly liable.