This bill amends existing North Dakota law regarding abortion procedures and introduces new continuing education requirements for physicians. Specifically, it mandates that any physician performing an abortion must have reviewed educational information created under section 43-17-27.1 within two years prior to the procedure, with an exception for medical emergencies. Additionally, the bill stipulates that an abortion facility must offer women the opportunity to receive and view an active ultrasound of their unborn child at least 24 hours before the scheduled abortion. The bill also reinforces that only licensed physicians can perform abortions and establishes penalties for non-compliance.

Furthermore, the bill creates a new subsection to section 43-17-27.1, requiring the state board to provide access to an instructional course on relevant chapters of the law as they pertain to medical practice. This course will be developed with the assistance of the office of management and budget and must be periodically updated to reflect current state law. An appropriation of $50,000 is allocated for the development of this instructional course, which must be awarded to a qualified individual or organization. The effective date for the amendments and new requirements is set for January 1, 2026, while the appropriation measure is declared an emergency.

Statutes affected:
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Representative Rohr: 14-02.1-04
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 14-02.1-04
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Senator Myrdal: 14-02.1-04
Enrollment: 14-02.1-04