In a recent opinion article for The Boston Globe, journalist Kara Bettis Carvalho examines the debate surrounding Massachusetts’ newly approved late-term abortion bill and the concerns raised by opponents over changes to existing safeguards.

Carvalho highlights the experience of Julia Wilson, who faced a serious pregnancy complication in 2023 when her water broke at 19 weeks. Wilson said doctors encouraged termination, but she chose to continue her pregnancy and later gave birth to her daughter Lucia, who lived briefly after delivery.

The article explains that the legislation would remove the current legal criteria governing abortions after 24 weeks and replace them with a standard based on a physician’s “professional judgment.” Supporters argue the change would address difficult medical situations, while opponents warn it could remove protections for viable unborn children and increase pressure on women facing complex pregnancies.

Carvalho also includes concerns from medical professionals and Massachusetts Citizens for Life President Myrna Maloney Flynn, who argue that women facing difficult diagnoses should receive expanded support, including resources such as perinatal hospice and compassionate care.

Read the article here.