The Biden administration has implemented a new regulation to protect women’s medical records from criminal investigations when they seek an abortion out-of-state. The regulation updates the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) of 1996, which prohibits medical providers and health insurers from disclosing patient information. However, law enforcement could previously access these records for investigations. The new regulation will prevent state or local officials from collecting medical records related to reproductive health care for investigations in states where abortion is legal. This will provide protection for women who travel to seek abortions in states where it is allowed.
