The new law can't be enforced until the Florida Supreme Court issues its final decision on Florida's current 15-week limit. After Dobbs v. Jackson, the court allowed Florida to enforce the 15-week limit pending a final decision. Pro-lifers are hopeful this is a sign that the court will uphold the 15-week limit. If that law is upheld, the new six-week limit would come into effect 30 days later.
Florida's new law contains exceptions for medical emergencies, rape, incest, or when the child is diagnosed with a fatal condition.
Abortionists or anyone who actively participates in illegal abortions under the new law could be charged with a third-degree felony. This is punishable by up to five years in prison. The charge increases to a second-degree felony if the mother dies during the illegal abortion. This is punishable by up to 15 years in prison.
The new law also provides $25 million for pregnancy resources and material support to help families with pregnancy and raising young children. These funds can be used for diapers, formula, cribs, clothing, parenting classes, and other parenting-related expenses.
“We are proud to support life and family in the state of Florida,” Gov. DeSantis said in a press release. “I applaud the Legislature for passing the Heartbeat Protection Act that expands pro-life protections and provides additional resources for young mothers and families.”
The press release continues, “While other states like California and New York have legalized infanticide up until birth, Governor DeSantis has enacted historic measures to defend the dignity of human life and transform Florida into a pro-family state.”
“This is a wonderful day for babies and their mothers in Florida,” said Lynda Bell, president of Florida Right to Life. “Pro-abortion groups lose the debate when they say we don’t care about women because this bill provides over $25 million in support for women and girls in an unexpected pregnancy. We Floridians value unborn children and their mothers.”
