summary
Introduced
02/06/2026
02/06/2026
In Committee
02/06/2026
02/06/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
104th General Assembly
Bill Summary
Creates the Ultrasound Opportunity Act. Sets forth legislative findings and definitions. Provides that at any facility where abortions are performed, the physician who is to perform the abortion, the referring physician, or another qualified person working in conjunction with either physician shall offer any woman seeking an abortion after 8 weeks of gestation an opportunity to receive and view an active ultrasound of her unborn child by someone qualified to perform ultrasounds at the facility, or at a facility listed in a listing of local ultrasound providers provided by the facility, prior to the woman having any part of an abortion performed or induced and prior to the administration of any anesthesia or medication in preparation for the abortion. Provides that the requirements of the Act shall not apply when, in the medical judgment of the physician performing or inducing the abortion, there exists a medical emergency. Contains a severability provision. Effective immediately.
AI Summary
This bill, titled the Ultrasound Opportunity Act, mandates that any facility performing abortions must offer women seeking an abortion after eight weeks of gestation the opportunity to view an active ultrasound of their unborn child, performed by a qualified individual, before any part of the abortion procedure or preparatory medication is administered. A "qualified person" is defined as someone who has completed a course in operating ultrasound equipment and meets other legal requirements. The bill also defines "abortion" as the termination of a pregnancy with intent other than to preserve the life or health of a live-born child or remove a dead fetus, and "medical emergency" as a condition that necessitates an immediate abortion to prevent the pregnant woman's death or serious, irreversible impairment of major bodily functions. These ultrasound requirements do not apply in cases of medical emergencies, as determined by the physician performing the abortion. The Act includes a severability provision, meaning if one part is found invalid, the rest remains in effect, and it takes effect immediately upon becoming law.
Sponsors (4)
Last Action
Added as Co-Sponsor Sen. Neil Anderson (on 02/23/2026)
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