Bicameral bill seeks to protect parental rights in minors’ abortion decisions
Caroline MolloyA federal bill to protect parental rights and end the trafficking of pregnant minors across state lines for abortions became bicameral following its Jan. 21 introduction in the Senate.
Sen. Ashley Moody, R-Fla., introduced a companion bill to legislation sponsored by Rep. Dave Taylor, R-Ohio, who introduced the “Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act,” in the House of Representatives in August 2025. The measure would “prohibit taking minors across State lines in circumvention of laws requiring the involvement of parents in abortion decisions.”
According to a press release from Taylor’s office, several states, including California, Illinois, and New York, do not require parental notification or consent before performing an abortion for a minor. Minors residing in pro-life states are able to travel — or be trafficked — to such states and obtain abortions without their parents’ knowledge.
Taylor’s office underscored the urgency of the issue, noting that since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022, the number of girls and women seeking abortions across state lines has roughly doubled. In 2024, out-of-state abortions totaled about 155,000 — 15% of all abortions performed that year.
In the release, Taylor said the bill would promote accountability while protecting parental rights and children.
“As states like California and Illinois promote abortions for all and keep parents in the dark about their child’s health, the Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act will put parents back in the equation and protect the lives of both the child and the unborn,” he stated.
Moody also emphasized parental involvement in their children’s medical care and wellbeing.
