North Dakota Bill Requiring Abortion Reversal Information (HB 1336)

HB 1336 requires a physician to inform a pregnant person seeking an abortion that it may be possible to reverse the effects of an abortion-inducing drug.

The bill amends informed consent requirements to require physicians to inform patients that it may be possible to reverse the effects of an abortion-inducing drug if the patient changes their mind, but that time is of the essence, and information and assistance with reversing the effects of an abortion-inducing drug are available in the printed materials provided.

The bill requires the printed materials to include information directing the patient where to obtain further information and assistance in locating a medical professional who can aid in the reversal of abortion-inducing drugs, such as mifepristone and misoprostol.

Latest Action

1/9/19 – Introduced; referred to Judiciary Committee.

1/28/19 – Passed House by a 73-16 vote.

3/15/19 – Passed the Senate by a 34-11 vote.

3/22/19 – Signed into law by Republican Gov. Doug Burgum.

Update #1

The state of North Dakota agreed to not enforce either law while the case proceeds (see American Medical Association v. Stenehjem).

Update #2

9/10/19 – U.S. District Court Judge Daniel L. Hovland granted a preliminary injunction, temporarily blocking the law from taking effect.

People

Legal Cases

• American Medical Association v. Stenehjem