Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that requires physicians who are to perform abortions to first perform an ultrasound, explain the results of the ultrasound, and present the images to the patient.

Highlights:

- Permits the pregnant woman to avert her eyes from the ultrasound images [sec. 2 (3)]. - Exempts medical emergencies from ultrasound requirements [sec. 2 (5)]. - Requires physicians, at least 24 hours prior to performing an abortion, to orally inform the patient of the nature and purpose of the abortion procedure, the probable gestational age of the embryo, and the medical risks of pregnancy continuation [sec. 4 (1) (a)]. - Requires that, on the day of abortion, the pregnant woman and physician sign a statement certifying that they have both followed the provisions of this bill [sec. 4 (1) (d-e)]. - Prohibits physicians from knowingly performing a partial-birth/late-term abortion, except when the mother's life is endangered [sec. 5 (1)]. - Makes a woman liable for monetary and statutory damages if she receives a partial-birth/late-term abortion, which may be obtained via a civil action filed by the father, if he is married to the mother at the time she receives the abortion, or by her parents if the mother was a minor at the time of the abortion [sec. 5 (2)]. - Finds that physicians who violates Sections 2 or 3 of this bill be fined up to $100,000 for the first offense and up to $250,000 for each subsequent offense. Along with the fine, the court shall report the violation to the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure to deem the appropriate disciplinary action [sec. 6 (30)]. - Finds that anyone who violates Section 4 of this bill is guilty of a Class A misdemeanor [sec. 6 (31)]. - This is a substitute bill sponsored by the Senate Judiciary Committee.

Full Bill Text