Maura Healey Signs Law Removing Massachusetts 24-Week Abortion Restrictions

Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey signed a sweeping abortion measure Monday eliminating the state’s previous restrictions governing abortions at 24 weeks or later and giving doctors far greater discretion over whether to perform the procedure later in pregnancy.

Healey signed the Prioritizing Patient Access to Care Act surrounded by supporters, declaring that abortion would remain “safe,” “legal” and “accessible” in the deep-blue state as long as she is governor.

The change is significant.

Under previous Massachusetts law, abortions at 24 weeks or later were generally limited to specified circumstances involving the life or physical or mental health of the pregnant woman or certain fetal diagnoses.

The new law removes those conditions and instead allows a licensed physician to rely on professional medical judgment when determining whether to provide an abortion later in pregnancy.

Supporters say the change is intended to help women facing severe or unexpected pregnancy complications who otherwise could be forced to travel outside Massachusetts for care.

Opponents argue the legislature has gone much further, effectively removing a gestational-age restriction and opening the door to abortions throughout pregnancy based on a doctor’s determination.

“We believe that health care decisions should be made between women and families and their doctors, not politicians,” Healey said during the signing ceremony.

“Abortion will remain safe. It will remain legal, and it will remain accessible here in Massachusetts. That’s my commitment to you.”

Texas Senator Ted Cruz reacted to the signing on X, saying, “Lord, please save us from liberal White women…”

Lord, please save us from liberal White women…. https://t.co/b7Cl2smX3h

— Ted Cruz (@tedcruz) August 11, 2026