Georgia House Bill Seeks Near-Total Abortion Ban, Fuels Protests

Georgia lawmakers recently held a heated hearing on House Bill 441, which aims to ban abortion entirely by defining personhood as beginning at fertilization, thereby classifying abortion as homicide. Proponents, including bill sponsor Rep. Emory Dunahoo, argue that the bill is necessary to protect unborn children, citing tens of thousands of abortions occurring annually in the state. Supporters, including pro-life advocates, gathered to express their backing, while opponents raised concerns about potential impacts on in-vitro fertilization and reproductive health care. Critics, including some medical professionals and Democratic representatives, highlighted the dangers the bill poses to women's health and the potential criminalization of medical procedures related to pregnancy complications. The legislation follows Georgia's current six-week abortion ban and has sparked significant public protests, reflecting the deep divisions over abortion access in the state. Despite the passionate debate, the bill cannot move forward this year due to legislative deadlines.