Signed by Governor Dave Heineman

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill which establishes procedures for ultrasounds performed prior to an abortion.

Highlights:

• Requires physicians, in cases where an ultrasound is used, to perform the ultrasound no less than 1 hour prior to the abortion (Sec. 2).

• Requires physicians to display the ultrasound images simultaneously, direct the screen such that the patient may view them if she chooses, and provide detailed medical descriptions of the images if requested by the patient (Sec. 2).

• Specifies that, in the event that an ultrasound is performed, the patient must certify, in writing and prior to the abortion, that the above procedures were followed (Sec. 2).

• Requires the Department of Health and Human Services to publish a comprehensive list of healthcare providers that offer ultrasounds, including a specification of those which offer the service free of charge, arranged geographically and including contact information (Sec. 3).

Full Bill Text