An Act relative to Down syndrome

This bill creates a new chapter in Massachusetts law that prohibits doctors and other medical providers from performing abortions if the decision is based on a prenatal diagnosis of Down syndrome. It directly affects healthcare professionals by making it a criminal offense punishable by up to 15 years in prison or a fine of $15,000 to terminate a pregnancy specifically because the fetus has Down syndrome. The legislation also mandates the revocation of medical licenses for providers who violate this rule and allows for civil lawsuits against them for damages. Additionally, the bill explicitly states that pregnant women seeking such abortions are not guilty of any crime under this new law.