Story perspectives

Massachusetts Senate Passes Unlimited-Abortion Bill, Governor To Sign

8/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

Massachusetts Senate passed H.5595 on July 31, 2026, allowing abortions at any gestational age and sent it to Governor Maura Healey.
The House approved the bill on July 22, 2026, by a 119-33 vote.
The law removes post-24-week limits, letting physicians perform abortions at any stage based on judgment.
Governor Healey said she will sign to keep women from leaving the state, while pro-life leaders and state bishops called the measure extreme and immoral.

History

Historical Context

Roe v. Wade (1973) established a federal right to abortion, which the Supreme Court overturned in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization (2022). Massachusetts responded with a 2022 reproductive-rights package that passed the Senate 16-1, and on July 31 2026 its Senate approved H.5595, eliminating the post-24-week ban. The move mirrors ballot-driven expansions in Vermont and California after Dobbs.

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Story summary

Massachusetts Senate passed H.5595 on July 31, 2026, allowing abortions at any gestational age and sent it to Governor Maura Healey.
The House approved the bill on July 22, 2026, by a 119-33 vote.
The law removes post-24-week limits, letting physicians perform abortions at any stage based on judgment.
Governor Healey said she will sign to keep women from leaving the state, while pro-life leaders and state bishops called the measure extreme and immoral.

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