Ultrasound Informed Consent Act

The Ultrasound Informed Consent Act proposes new federal requirements for healthcare providers who perform abortions. Under this bill, a provider would be required to conduct an obstetric ultrasound before a patient can give informed consent for the procedure. The provider would also be required to display the images, provide a simultaneous explanation of what the ultrasound shows, and offer a detailed medical description of the fetus, including its dimensions and any visible cardiac activity or internal organs.

If enacted, the bill would allow for civil penalties and legal action against providers who fail to follow these steps. However, the proposal includes specific exceptions for medical emergencies where a physical illness or injury threatens the life of the pregnant woman. Additionally, while the provider must display the images and provide the description, the patient would have the right to decline viewing the ultrasound without facing any legal or financial penalties.