# Plain Language Summary: Dismemberment Abortion Ban Act of 2023

This bill would make it a federal crime for doctors to perform a specific type of abortion procedure. The procedure in question involves using surgical instruments like forceps or scissors to remove fetal parts piece by piece from the uterus. Doctors who perform this procedure would face up to two years in prison and fines. The bill does include an exception: doctors could still perform this procedure if it's necessary to save a pregnant woman's life when her life is endangered by a physical condition or illness related to the pregnancy.

The bill also creates a civil lawsuit option, meaning women or parents of minors could sue anyone who performs this banned procedure. If they win, they could receive money damages for physical and psychological injuries, plus three times the cost of the abortion procedure, and potentially punitive damages (extra money meant to punish wrongdoing). Importantly, the bill specifically protects women from being prosecuted or sued themselves—only the medical provider can face criminal charges or lawsuits. The bill also clarifies that it doesn't restrict other abortion methods, even in cases of rape or incest, as long as they don't involve the specific dismemberment technique described.

This is a federal law that would apply nationwide, though it's worth noting that abortion law is complex and involves both state and federal regulations. The bill's actual impact would depend on whether it becomes law and how courts interpret its specific language about what procedures are prohibited.

Dismemberment Abortion Ban Act of 2023

Lesko, Debbie

Dismemberment Abortion Ban Act of 2023 This bill restricts the performance of dismemberment abortions. It defines the term dismemberment abortion. Specifically, the bill prohibits a physician from knowingly performing a dismemberment abortion. It provides an exception for a dismemberment abortion that is necessary to save the life of a mother whose life is endangered by a physical disorder, illness, or condition. The bill establishes criminal penalties&#8212;a fine, a prison term of up to two years, or both&#8212;for a physician who performs a prohibited dismemberment abortion. It also authorizes civil remedies for a woman or parent of a minor who undergoes a dismemberment abortion. A woman who undergoes a dismemberment abortion may not be prosecuted or held civilly liable.