Protecting Individuals with Down Syndrome Act

# Protecting Individuals with Down Syndrome Act - Summary **What the bill would do:** This bill would make it a federal crime for doctors to perform abortions specifically because a fetus has been diagnosed with Down syndrome. Violators could face fines and up to five years in prison. The bill would also allow people to sue for damages and seek court orders to stop such abortions. However, the woman having the abortion would not face criminal or civil penalties. **Who it affects:** The bill primarily affects abortion providers, medical professionals, and pregnant women carrying fetuses diagnosed with Down syndrome.

It also relates to the broader disability community, as it addresses discrimination based on disability status. **Key provisions:** The bill creates new federal criminal penalties for providers who knowingly perform Down syndrome-selective abortions, while explicitly protecting women from prosecution. It allows for civil lawsuits against providers and establishes this as a federal issue rather than leaving it solely to state law. **Current status:** The bill is currently in committee in the Senate (119th Congress) and has not yet been voted on or passed. It was introduced by Senator Steve Daines (R-MT).