Poland’s Sejm passed two bills on October 20 to ease abortion restrictions, but both still need Senate approval and face a likely veto from President Karol Nawrocki.
One bill would make some abortion-related help, including help obtaining an abortion, no longer a crime in some cases. It passed by 217 votes to 213, with three abstentions. A separate bill was backed by 233 lawmakers and opposed by 203.
It would restore abortion as a legal option when the fetus has severe abnormalities or an incurable condition that threatens its life. That legal ground was removed after a 2020 Constitutional Tribunal ruling took effect in January 2021. The assistance bill would also change the criminal penalties that can apply to people who help someone obtain an abortion.
It would also protect medical professionals in certain circumstances. The bills do not propose allowing abortions on request up to 12 weeks. Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s coalition had promised that broader reform.
Abortion is currently permitted in Poland when pregnancy threatens the woman’s life or health, or results from a crime such as rape or incest. Even if the Senate passes the bills, Nawrocki’s signature is required for them to become law. He has previously opposed easing restrictions.