Heartbeat Bills

Heartbeat Bills are proposed laws that aim to restrict or ban abortions once a fetal heartbeat can be detected, typically around six weeks of pregnancy. Supporters argue they protect unborn babies’ lives, viewing the heartbeat as an early sign of life. Critics contend these laws limit women's reproductive rights and may be difficult to enforce due to the early detection timeframe and diagnostic challenges. Many of these bills face legal challenges and vary significantly by state, reflecting ongoing debates about morality, individual rights, and medical considerations surrounding abortion.