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Senate panel approves printing of abortion‑related draft after doctors cite care gaps
Summary
The committee approved sending RS 32699 to print for drafting after Representative Sauter and Dr. John Werdel said the draft clarifies maternal‑health exceptions and could reduce out‑of‑state medical transfers; the committee did not hold a full hearing this session.
Senate State Affairs voted on March 21 to send RS 32699, an abortion‑related draft, to print to allow additional drafting ahead of a planned full committee hearing next session.
Representative Sauter told the committee that multiple physicians in some communities had left obstetrics and gynecology practice, citing Sandpoint as an example, and framed the draft as intended to give clinicians clearer guidance. Dr. John Werdel of St. Luke's Hospital, medical director for women's services, said existing law limited exceptions to saving a patient’s life and did not address earlier maternal health risks. He told the committee specific clarifications in the draft — case review agreements signed by two physicians and documented verbal and written consent processes for palliative or hospice care — would add safety and reduce out‑of‑state patient transfers.
"Clear definition of maternal health risks would eliminate the majority of medical transports out of Idaho," Dr. Werdel said. He also raised concerns about clinicians facing potential criminal suits under the current statutory framework.
Senator Den Hartog moved to send RS 32699 to print; Senator Toews seconded. The motion carried by voice vote. Senators indicated the draft was being printed to enable future committee consideration and that it likely would not receive a hearing this session.
Committee members offered varying views: Senator Shippy said the draft aligned with the underlying principles of Idaho's abortion laws while acknowledging his personal disagreement; Vice Chairman Bernt asked for clarification about physician departures and Representative Sauter noted one physician moved to another Pacific‑West community.
