Teleabortion Prevention Act of 2025
H.R. 729, the Teleabortion Prevention Act of 2025, would make it illegal for a healthcare provider to provide a chemical abortion unless the provider is physically present with the patient, has physically examined the patient, and arranges a follow-up visit within 14 days after administration or use of the abortion drug. Violating these requirements could result in a fine of up to $1,000 and/or a prison term of up to 2 years. The bill creates a narrow life-saving exception for cases where the mother’s life is endangered by a physical condition related to the pregnancy. It also explicitly shields patients from prosecution and defines key terms (such as “abortion drug,” “chemical abortion,” and “healthcare provider”). In addition to creating the offense, the bill makes clerical amendments to the U.S. Code to insert the new provision and reorganize related chapters. The overall effect would be to restrict the use of chemical abortions, particularly in remote or telemedicine contexts, by requiring in-person care and timely follow-up.
Key Points
- 1Prohibition with conditions: A healthcare provider may not knowingly provide a chemical abortion without physically examining the patient, being physically present at the location, and scheduling a follow-up visit within 14 days.
- 2Penalties: Offenders face up to a $1,000 fine and/or up to 2 years in prison; the restriction applies to activities in interstate or foreign commerce.
- 3Life-saving exception: The rule does not apply when a chemical abortion is necessary to save the life of the mother due to a dangerous physical condition related to the pregnancy.
- 4Patient protection: A patient cannot be prosecuted under this section, and a patient cannot be charged with conspiracy for acts covered by this provision.
- 5Definitions and scope: The bill defines terms such as abortion drug, chemical abortion, healthcare provider, provide, and unborn child, and clarifies that the rule does not affect the treatment of verified ectopic pregnancies. It also reorganizes the code to insert the new section as 18 U.S.C. 1532 and updates chapter/part tables accordingly.