H.R.797 - Ultrasounds Save Lives Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.797, the Ultrasounds Save Lives Act of 2025, mandates that abortion providers must perform an ultrasound on a woman seeking an abortion and share the results with her at least 24 hours before the procedure, except in medical emergencies. It also requires a signed Informed Consent Authorization form, including details about the gestational age and developmental characteristics of the unborn child, as well as medical risks associated with the abortion. The bill establishes civil penalties for non-compliance, including fines and potential civil actions by women or parents of minors.
Expected Effects
This bill, if enacted, would likely reduce the number of abortions performed by ensuring women receive more information about the fetus and the abortion procedure. It could also lead to increased legal challenges for abortion providers who do not comply with the informed consent requirements. The bill aims to provide women with more comprehensive information before making a decision about abortion.
Potential Benefits
- Provides women seeking abortions with more information about the development of the unborn child.
- Ensures women are aware of the medical risks associated with the abortion procedure.
- Establishes a legal framework for informed consent, potentially reducing instances of regret or coercion.
- May lead to a decrease in the number of abortions performed.
- Increases transparency and accountability for abortion providers.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- May create additional barriers for women seeking abortions, particularly those in rural areas or with limited access to healthcare.
- Could be perceived as an infringement on a woman's right to choose.
- May increase the cost of abortions due to the required ultrasound and administrative procedures.
- Could lead to legal challenges based on privacy and bodily autonomy.
- May cause emotional distress to women who are already facing a difficult decision.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutionality is debatable, particularly concerning the right to privacy and bodily autonomy as potentially protected under the Fourteenth Amendment. Proponents may argue that the bill aligns with the government's interest in protecting potential life and ensuring informed consent. Opponents may argue that it places an undue burden on a woman's right to an abortion, as established in Planned Parenthood v. Casey. The bill also touches on the First Amendment, specifically the freedom of speech, as it mandates specific information be conveyed to the patient.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).