Campeche approves prison sentences for abandoning pregnant women

The Congress of the State of Campeche has approved a reform to the state Penal Code to criminalize the abandonment of pregnant women or gestational persons. The amendment establishes prison sentences ranging from six months to three years for individuals who deliberately fail to fulfill their legal obligation to provide necessary assistance.

To qualify as a crime, the lack of support must pose a real and verifiable danger to the life or health of the pregnant person. The reform specifically aims to protect access to essential resources, including food, housing, medical attention, and basic care. The measure was passed unanimously and was promoted by several deputies, including José Antonio Jiménez Gutiérrez.