Massachusetts expands abortion access through new legislation

Governor Maura Healey has signed new legislation in Massachusetts that expands access to abortion by removing previous gestation-based restrictions. Under the new law, the decision to perform an abortion after 24 weeks is left to the “professional judgment” of a physician rather than being subject to specific timeline limits or medical review board interference.

Supporters of the law, including major medical groups like the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, argue the change allows patients facing serious complications or fetal anomalies to receive medically appropriate care close to home. Previously, some patients were required to leave the state to access care in later stages of pregnancy.

The legislation has drawn intense criticism from opponents. Some commentators have characterized the law as extreme, while others have made unsubstantiated claims regarding “post-birth abortion” or the sale of fetal tissue. Critics have also expressed concern over the removal of oversight previously applied to medical procedures.