This bill restricts telehealth for medication abortions by requiring providers to physically examine patients, be present during the procedure, and schedule follow-up visits. Violations carry criminal penalties of fines and up to two years imprisonment. The bill includes an exception when the procedure is necessary to save the life of a mother endangered by a physical condition. Patients cannot be prosecuted under this law.
Latest Action
Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.
AI Summary
Plain-English explanation of this bill
This bill restricts telehealth for medication abortions by requiring providers to physically examine patients, be present during the procedure, and schedule follow-up visits. Violations carry criminal penalties of fines and up to two years imprisonment. The bill includes an exception when the procedure is necessary to save the life of a mother endangered by a physical condition. Patients cannot be prosecuted under this law.
Last updated: 1/4/2026
Official Summary
Congressional Research Service summary
<p><strong>Teleabortion Prevention Act of 2025</strong></p><p>This bill restricts the use of telehealth for chemical abortions (also known as medication abortions).</p><p>Specifically, it requires a provider who dispenses or prescribes medication for a chemical abortion to physically examine the patient, be physically present at the location of the chemical abortion, and schedule a follow-up visit for the patient. The bill provides an exception for a chemical abortion that is necessary to save the life of a mother whose life is endangered by a physical disorder, illness, injury, or condition.</p><p>The bill establishes criminal penalties—a fine, a prison term of up to two years, or both—for a provider who does not comply with the requirements.</p><p>A patient who undergoes a chemical abortion may not be prosecuted.</p>
Key Points
Main provisions of the bill
Requires in-person physical examination before medication abortion
Mandates provider physical presence during the procedure
Requires scheduling of follow-up visits
Establishes criminal penalties: fines and/or up to 2 years imprisonment
Exempts patients from prosecution
Provides exception for life-threatening conditions
How This Impacts Americans
Potential effects on citizens and communities
This legislation would significantly impact abortion access by eliminating telehealth options for medication abortions. Healthcare providers would face new criminal liability and in-person requirements. Patients in rural or underserved areas would need to travel for care. The bill reflects ongoing debates about reproductive healthcare regulation and the role of telehealth in medical practice.
Policy Areas
Primary Policy Area
Crime and Law Enforcement
Related Subjects
Abortion
Civil actions and liability
Health personnel
Health technology, devices, supplies
Medical ethics
Medical tests and diagnostic methods
Scope & Jurisdiction
Jurisdiction Level
federal
Congressional Session
119th Congress
Citation Reference
729, 119th Congress (2025). "Teleabortion Prevention Act of 2025". Source: Voter's Right Platform. https://votersright.org/bills/118-hr-729
