Virginia Bill Redefining the Term ‘Child’ (HB 556)

HB 556 would amend § 18.2-371.1 of the Code of Virginia regarding the abuse and neglect of children to include a viable fetus under the definition of “child.”

With this change, a pregnant woman may face charges if she engages in behavior deemed risky to the fetus. For example:

• The bill would make it a Class 4 felony for a parent or guardian to cause serious injury to the life or health of a viable fetus.
• The bill would make it a Class 6 felony for a parent or guardian who shows reckless disregard for human life in their actions or omissions with a viable fetus.

The bill would not apply to any injury to a fetus resulting from the performance of a lawful abortion.

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