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Committee advances shield law for women who get abortion

Lawmakers are advancing a bill that prevents women from being held criminally liable if they get an abortion.

House Bill 1220, presented by Rep. Rebecca Reimer, provides a legal shield to women who undergo an abortion despite the procedure’s illegal status in South Dakota.

The bill is framed as an effort to protect women and saw pro-life lawmakers voice support for that reason.

Further, a handout was shared in Wednesday's meeting signed by over 80 nationwide pro-life organizations that advocated against establishing criminal penalties for women who cross state boundaries for abortion treatment.

HB 1220 was passed unanimously out of the House Judiciary Committee with a do pass recommendation.

C.J. Keene is a Rapid City-based journalist covering the legal system, education, and culture