Massachusetts Gov. Healey Signs Law Protecting Reproductive, Transgender Care

Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey signed an updated Shield Law in 2025 that significantly strengthens protections for patients seeking reproductive and gender-affirming care, including abortion, and for the providers delivering those services. The law bars state and local authorities from cooperating with any federal or out-of-state investigations into health care services that are legal in Massachusetts, while also restricting the disclosure of sensitive personal data such as physicians' names. It codifies access to emergency, medically necessary abortions and prohibits technology providers from complying with out-of-state or federal requests for related health information. This legislation is a response to increased federal and out-of-state scrutiny following the Supreme Court's overturning of Roe v. Wade, and it reflects Massachusetts' commitment to safeguarding health care autonomy and privacy amid ongoing political and legal challenges. Governor Healey emphasized that Massachusetts will not allow external forces, including President Trump and his allies, to interfere with access to high-quality health care. The law also mandates that hospitals treat abortion-related emergencies and calls for technical advisory groups to guide businesses on protecting patient data related to reproductive and gender-affirming care.