Ultrasounds Save Lives Act of 2025
Ultrasounds Save Lives Act of 2025 would require abortion providers to obtain informed consent through a standardized process that includes performing an ultrasound and sharing its results with the patient at least 24 hours before an abortion (except in medical emergencies). The provider must also have the patient sign an Informed Consent Authorization form that discloses the gestational age in completed days, all medical risks of abortion, and the major developmental characteristics of the unborn child at that gestational age (such as heartbeat and development of organs). The form would also note that an ultrasound was performed, that penalties may apply for noncompliance, and that the patient understands the information. The bill creates civil penalties on providers for violations, enables private lawsuits by patients or their parents, and allows data retention requirements tied to the form. It does not override state laws that require more extensive disclosures, and it allows presenting the information under state law if done at least 24 hours before the abortion.
Key Points
- 1Ultrasound and disclosure requirement: Before performing or attempting an abortion (except in emergencies), the provider must conduct an ultrasound, share the results with the patient, and obtain a signed Informed Consent Authorization form at least 24 hours before the procedure.
- 2Contents of the consent form: The form must include (a) gestational age in completed days, (b) all medical risks of abortion or the drug/procedure used, (c) major developmental characteristics of the unborn child at that gestational age (e.g., heartbeat, pain response, and organ/limb/face development), (d) a statement that an ultrasound was performed and results shared, (e) warnings about penalties and civil actions for noncompliance, and (f) an affirmation that signers understand the information.
- 3Signatories and recordkeeping: The form must be signed in person by the patient, the abortion provider, and a witness, and it must be retained in the patient’s medical file with data-retention obligations aligned to 45 CFR 164.530.
- 4Penalties and private right of action: The bill imposes civil penalties on providers for violations and allows a private right of action by the patient or a parent of a minor for damages, including money damages, triple damages on certain grounds, and punitive damages. The patient is not liable for penalties.
- 5Exceptions and construction: There are emergency exceptions where compliance would pose a greater risk to the patient. The act does not preempt more expansive state disclosure laws, and it allows presenting the required information at the same time as obtaining consent under state law, provided the 24-hour minimum is respected.