Massachusetts

Mass. lawmakers to consider expanding abortion access

BOSTON — Activists on both sides of the abortion issue are expected to converge on the Massachusetts Statehouse for a public hearing on bills aimed at expanding or restricting abortion access.

One bill at Monday's hearing would let women obtain an abortion after 24 weeks of pregnancy in cases of "fatal fetal anomalies."

The bill, called the "Roe Act" by supporters, would amend current state law which allows abortions after 24 weeks only to preserve the life or health of the mother.

Supporters say Massachusetts women facing a lethal fetal diagnosis later in pregnancy must now travel out of state.

Massachusetts Republican Party Chairman Jim Lyons has criticized what he calls an "extreme infanticide bill."

Republican Gov. Charlie Baker has said he opposes late-term abortions and supports current Massachusetts abortion laws.