Woman does not have to look at images, but doctor would be required to describe them
FRANKFORT, Ky. (Feb. 7, 2013) — Two measures that would affect the abortion procedure in Kentucky were approved today by the Senate Veterans, Military Affairs, and Public Protection Committee.
Senate Bill 4, sponsored by Committee Chair Jimmy Higdon, R-Lebanon, and President Pro Tempore Katie Stine, R-Southgate, would require a woman seeking an abortion to provide informed consent in a face-to-face meeting with a physician, nurse or social worker.
Under current law, a patient must be presented with information regarding the procedure, as well as fetal development, 24 hours before it is performed. The intent was not for this to happen over the phone, as has been reported in some instances, Higdon said.
Senate Bill 5, sponsored by Sen. Paul Hornback, R-Shelbyville, would require an ultrasound prior to informed consent being given for an abortion. While the woman could choose not to look at the images, the physician would be required to verbally describe them.
Opponents of the bills were concerned about the added financial expense of the measures to women, especially those with lower incomes in rural parts of the state.
Both bills were approved by 8-2 votes and now go to the full Senate for consideration.
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