Bill H.1991, An Act relative to abortion care for young people, would strip away essential parental involvement protections for minors seeking abortions in Massachusetts. Current law recognizes the role of parents and legal guardians in helping young people navigate serious and often traumatic medical decisions. H.1991 erases these safeguards by allowing minors to consent to abortion entirely on their own, without any parental knowledge or support.

This bill also expands vague and undefined language such as “abortion related care,” while reducing oversight and limiting transparency. Instead of strengthening informed consent, H.1991 weakens accountability and accelerates access to abortion for children who may be frightened, pressured, or unaware of their alternatives.

Parents have the constitutional right and responsibility to guide their children through critical health crises. This legislation removes families from the conversation at precisely the moments when young people need them most.

The legislature is considering H.1991 now and your voice is urgently needed. Written testimony from residents is crucial to protecting minors, preserving parental rights, and promoting compassionate support for young people and their unborn children.

You can share a personal conviction, an experience with parental involvement, or your concern for the health and safety of minors. A  prewritten testimony is available to make participation quick and simple.

Note: If your state senator or representative serves on the Joint Committee on the Judiciary, your message will go directly to them. Otherwise, your legislator will be asked to forward it to the Committee on your behalf.