South Carolina is considering the Unborn Child Protection Act, which aims to make the state's abortion laws the strictest in the nation by removing exceptions for rape, incest, and fetal anomalies, and criminalizing assistance with abortions, with penalties including up to 30 years in prison.

The bill was discussed during a public hearing held at the State House, where expert testimony was presented, but no immediate legislative action is expected as the hearing occurs outside the regular session.

The hearing was livestreamed, allowing public access, and included discussions with lawmakers and advocacy groups, highlighting the intense political debate and public concern surrounding the legislation.

The bill faced fierce opposition during an eight-hour Senate hearing, with nearly 80 testimonies from supporters and opponents, and protests outside the State House, including a large inflatable IUD symbolizing opposition.

There is debate over whether to refer the issue to voters, but no vote has been scheduled yet, and the bill must pass through multiple legislative stages before becoming law.

The bill’s passage remains uncertain as it requires support from both chambers, with the legislative session beginning fully in January, amid a political landscape that has become more conservative since the 2024 primaries.

Governor Henry McMaster has expressed no interest in further restrictions, feeling current laws are sufficient, while Democratic senators believe the bill lacks enough support to pass.

Public interest in the bill is high, with over 300 testimonies, including personal stories about fetal anomalies and traveling out of state for medical care, reflecting the bill’s emotional and legal implications.

Protests included supporters, such as pastors and mothers, and opponents, who rallied with signs and speeches, emphasizing women's rights and bodily autonomy, with some protests featuring symbolic displays like the inflatable IUD.

Citizens are encouraged to contact state senators involved in the committee to voice their opinions, as the upcoming hearing is the only chance for in-person testimony before a vote.

Opponents fear the bill threatens healthcare access and reproductive rights, with concerns about future generations losing rights, especially given the bill’s potential to restrict contraception and fertility treatments.

Testimonies from women and doctors highlighted the risks of the bill, such as difficulty diagnosing fetal anomalies and the potential for women to be forced to carry dangerous pregnancies, with some needing to leave the state for care.

The debate underscores ongoing tensions in South Carolina over reproductive rights, with strong advocacy on both sides and political risks for legislators.