INTRODUCED
BY L. Sheldon-Galloway, S. Galloway
A joint resolution of the Senate and the House of Representatives of the state of montana requesting an interim study of complications related to abortion; and requiring that the final results of the study be reported to the 69th legislature.
WHEREAS, the Montana Vital Statistics Report 2020 shows that 1,498 abortions were performed in the state in 2020; and
WHEREAS, medical procedures of all types carry the risk of complications; and
WHEREAS, a woman who terminates a pregnancy may experience both physical health and mental health complications related to the abortion.
Now, therefore, be it resolved by the Senate and the House of Representatives OF THE STATE OF MONTANA:
That the Legislative Council be requested to designate an appropriate interim committee or statutory committee, pursuant to section 5-5-217, MCA, or direct sufficient staff resources to review abortion-related complications.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the study examine:
(1) how an abortion affects a woman's future ability to conceive and to carry a pregnancy to full term;
(2) the short-term and long-term physical health effects of abortion, including complications that may occur during the procedure and during recovery from the procedure; and
(3) the short-term and long-term mental health effects of abortion, including but not limited to suicidal tendencies and emotional trauma.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the study examine the effects of abortions performed by both medical procedures and solely through the use of medication.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the study involve all appropriate stakeholders.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that if the study is assigned to staff, any findings or conclusions be presented to and reviewed by an appropriate committee designated by the Legislative Council.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that all aspects of the study, including presentation and review requirements, be concluded prior to September 15, 2023.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the final results of the study, including any findings, conclusions, comments, or recommendations of the appropriate committee, be reported to the 69th Legislature.