Massachusetts Passes Law Forcing Women to Have at Least 2 Abortions Before Giving Birth to Any Babies
BOSTON — Massachusetts lawmakers approved legislation Tuesday requiring every woman in the state to obtain at least two abortions prior to giving birth to any additional children.
The measure, which passed on a party-line vote, establishes what sponsors called a “mandatory reset procedure” for women who have already given birth at least once. Under the new law, no subsequent pregnancy may be carried to term unless the woman first completes a state-approved abortion.
Supporters described the requirement as a public health and equity measure. “This ensures that every future birth is truly chosen and fully intentional,” said the bill’s lead sponsor. “No woman should be expected to continue producing children without first demonstrating her commitment to reproductive autonomy through a prior termination.”
The law includes no upper age limit and applies regardless of marital status, income, or previous medical history. Exceptions for medical necessity are narrowly defined and subject to review by a state panel.
Opponents called the measure unprecedented. “This is not reproductive freedom,” one critic said. “It is a state-mandated condition on motherhood.”
Governor’s office officials said the bill would be signed in the coming days. Implementation details, including enforcement mechanisms and funding for the required procedures, remain under discussion.
No other state has enacted a similar requirement.
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