Massachusetts House voted 70-30 in favor of a bill that would change how late‑term abortions are regulated. The current statute requires that abortions after 24 weeks be performed only under specific circumstances such as the mother’s life at risk or severe fetal anomaly. The new measure would replace these constraints, allowing physicians to determine whether an abortion is medically necessary after 24 weeks without the earlier limitations.

Supporters say the change would reduce administrative burdens on providers and allow timely treatment for patients in crisis, while critics warn that it could lead to unnecessary terminations. The legislation, if enacted, would become effective immediately upon passage. It will be monitored by state regulators, and further guidance will be issued to hospitals and clinics to ensure compliance with the new standard.

The Senate will review the bill in the coming weeks, and if it passes, the governor will sign it into law. Public health officials will assess its impact on abortion access statewide.