SB138

Senate Bill 138 aims to repeal the existing state requirement for the licensure of clinics, health centers, or other facilities that perform abortions. The bill cites the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization and existing Arkansas laws as the basis for concluding that abortion services are prohibited, rendering licensure regulations unnecessary. It removes the specific requirement that such facilities must be licensed by the Department of Health and repeals the designation of abortion clinic license fees as special revenue. Additionally, the bill includes an emergency clause, stating that the legislation is immediately necessary to avoid confusion regarding licensing requirements for practices that are currently prohibited under state law. The act takes effect immediately upon the Governor's approval or the conclusion of the veto process.