Trump Administration Rescinds Emergency Abortion Protections

The Trump administration has rescinded Biden-era guidance requiring hospitals to provide emergency abortions under the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA), even in states with strict abortion bans. Issued after Roe v. Wade’s fall, the 2022 guidance mandated care for conditions like ectopic pregnancies or hypertensive emergencies. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) now says the previous directive doesn’t reflect current policy. While CMS says it will still enforce EMTALA when a pregnant woman or fetus is in “serious jeopardy,” it gives no clear definition. Critics argue the rollback sows confusion and discourages providers from offering life-saving care. The move aligns with Trump’s broader deregulation agenda and follows signals from officials, including HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., downplaying federal abortion protections.

11-06-2025