Rep. Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.) introduced legislation Thursday to “ensure” pregnant people receive an ultrasound and are offered a chance to see its images before consenting to an abortion.
The legislation says abortion providers “shall” perform an ultrasound, “provide a complete medical description of the ultrasound images” — including size of the embryo and whether there is cardiac activity — and show the images to the mother.
The bill states that those seeking an abortion will not be penalized for not looking at ultrasound images.
“Neither the abortion provider nor the pregnant woman shall be subject to any penalty under this title if the pregnant woman declines to look at the displayed ultrasound images,” the bill reads.
An exception is included for medical emergencies.
“The Biden Administration’s heinous pro-abortion policies continue to incentivize women to end the lives of innocent, unborn American children,” Biggs said in a press release. “My legislation provides pregnant women a safe and intimate opportunity to rethink their abortion. This subtle but important process change can potentially save millions of unborn lives. Defending the right to life remains one of my top priorities in Congress.”
Sponsors of the bill include Reps. Matt Rosendale (R-Mont.), Jeff Duncan (R-S.C.), Dan Crenshaw (R-Texas) and Mary Miller (R-Ill.).
In 2022, the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, ending the constitutional right to an abortion, setting the stage for intense battles over abortion law nationwide.
Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) warned Wednesday of a national abortion ban if Republicans gain full governmental control this year.
“If the Republicans had the House, the Senate and the White House, if that happened, I don’t think there’s any doubt they’re going for a nationwide abortion ban,” Warren said.