Texas Insider Report: AUSTIN Texas Senate Bill 16 known as SB 16 or The Sonogram Bill requires the performance of a sonogram by a physician or licensed sonographer 24 hours before an abortion procedure. The Senate State Affairs Committee passed The Sonogram Bill by a vote of 7 to 2 late Wednesday. It is now on its way to the floor of the Senate.
The woman may refuse the offer to view the results of the sonogram. The doctor would also be required to check for the heartbeat and allow the woman to hear it if she so chooses.
The facility is required to give printed materials to the patient describing the risks as well as any free pregnancy services available in her area.
There is an exception for medical emergencies.
I am very appreciative of Chairman Duncan and the members of the committee who helped me get the Sonogram Bill out of committee Patrick told Texas Insider.
The bill will provide a high level of informed consent. It will ensure there are no barriers preventing women from receiving the information to which they are entitled for such a life-changing decision
said Patrick.
