Connecticut House Bill HB05099

Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/6/11
• Refer: 1/6/11

Caption

An Act Requiring The Administration Of An Ultrasound Procedure Prior To The Termination Of A Pregnancy.

Impact

If enacted, HB 05099 would revise Chapter 368y of the general statutes. This change would create a legal obligation for healthcare providers in Connecticut to perform ultrasounds before abortions are conducted. Supporters argue that this requirement could help patients make more informed choices regarding their reproductive health. This law could also serve to underscore the medical responsibilities that healthcare providers have in terms of patient education in sensitive situations surrounding abortion.

Summary

House Bill 05099 is a legislative proposal that mandates the administration of an ultrasound procedure by healthcare providers prior to performing an abortion. The intent behind this bill is to prioritize the health and well-being of individuals who choose to terminate a pregnancy. By requiring an ultrasound, the bill aims to ensure that the patient is adequately informed about the procedure and the implications of their decision, aligning with the practices in some other states that enforce similar regulations on abortion procedures.

Contention

The bill may encounter significant opposition, primarily from advocacy groups that champion reproductive rights, who argue that such a requirement could impose unnecessary barriers to accessing abortion services. Critics might contend that the bill could be interpreted as a means of dissuading individuals from proceeding with abortions by subjecting them to additional procedures. Furthermore, there are concerns that mandatory ultrasounds may serve to politicize healthcare and intrude on the patient-provider relationship, potentially complicating medical protocols and ethical considerations involved in abortion care.