§ 1782 — Definitions

For purposes of this subchapter, the following definitions will apply.

(1) “Abortion” means the use of any instrument, medicine, drug or any other substance or device to terminate the pregnancy of a woman known to be pregnant, with an intention other than to increase the probability of a live birth, to preserve the life or health of the child after live birth, or to remove a dead fetus.

(2) “Coercion” means restraining or dominating the choice of a minor female by force, threat of force, or deprivation of food and shelter.

(3) “Emancipated minor” means any minor female who is or has been married or has, by court order or otherwise, been freed from the care, custody and control of her parents or any other legal guardian.

(4) “Licensed mental health professional” means a person licensed under the Division of Professional Regulation of the State as a:

(a) Psychiatrist;

(b) Psychologist; or

(c) Licensed professional counselor of mental health.

(5) “Medical emergency” means that condition which, on the basis of the physician or other medically authorized person’s good faith clinical judgment, so complicates the medical condition of the pregnant minor as to necessitate the immediate abortion of her pregnancy to avert her death or for which delay will create serious risk of substantial and irreversible impairment of a major bodily function.

(6) “Minor” means a female person under the age of 16.

Legislative History

70 Del. Laws, c. 238, § 1 ; 70 Del. Laws, c. 186, § 1