Arizona Governor Jan Brewer on Saturday signed HB 2416, legislation that ensures women considering an abortion receive critical information in advance of that decision. The bill also adds an important safeguard for the health of women by requiring that a physician be present for any abortion.
“Throughout my political career, I’ve had a consistent track record of support for pro-life legislation,” says Brewer. “This bill sends a message that Arizonans continue to care deeply about protecting life and protecting families.”
HB 2416 makes four important changes to protect the health and welfare of women seeking an abortion in Arizona. The measure:
* Provides every woman considering an abortion the opportunity to view her ultrasound and hear the heartbeat of the unborn child (if audible),
* Updates abortion clinic licensing statues to include abortions by medication,
* Prohibits use of telemedicine for abortion, and
* Requires appointment of guardians ad litem for minors seeking abortion without parental consent.
Women deserve to have full and complete information before making a decision whether to have an abortion. It’s critical to provide them with as much information as possible, as abortion is a decision with lasting physical and emotional implications.
Among other provisions, this legislation requires a physician performing an abortion to complete an ultrasound of the preborn child and provide the mother an opportunity to view the ultrasound image and listen to the child’s heartbeat.
“I would like to thank Representative Kimberly Yee and Senator Nancy Barto for sponsoring this important legislation, and Cathi Herrod from the Center for Arizona Policy for helping spearhead this effort,” says Brewer. “This measure provides critical safeguards for Arizona families.”
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