In the near future, I intend to introduce legislation establishing a requirement that, at least 48 hours prior to undergoing an abortion in the Commonwealth, a pregnant mother receive an ultrasound in order to rule out the presence of preventable complications such as an ectopic pregnancy.

According to the Pennsylvania Department of Health, medical abortions accounted for over 56% of all abortions performed in the Commonwealth in 2023. As nonsurgical abortions continue to increase in prevalence, it is essential that Pennsylvania establish safeguards ensuring that pregnant mothers receive appropriate medical evaluation prior to undergoing an abortion.

My legislation will require the Department of Health to compile a list of health care providers, facilities and clinics that perform ultrasounds, including a separate list of those that do so free of charge, in order to facilitate this new requirement. My legislation will also require the Department to create materials informing pregnant mothers of essential information they must know to make an informed decision regarding having an abortion. These materials must cover topics including acts that do and do not constitute an abortion and the most common medical conditions that threaten the life or health of a pregnant woman, as well as how such conditions are treated.

I hope you will join me in co-sponsoring this important legislation. Thank you for your interest and support.