HB739 Alabama 2012 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Randy WoodRepresentative

Republican

Co-Sponsors

Terri CollinsApril WeaverMac ButtramKurt WallaceMark TuggleAllen FarleyDavid Sessions

Session

Regular Session 2012

Title

Abortion, Women's Right to Know Act, additional findings provided for, ultrasound of unborn child displayed on screen within women's line of vision seeking abortion, Secs. 26-23A-2, 26-23A-4 am'd

Summary

HB739 would require the ultrasound image to be displayed in the woman's line of vision and expand the informed-consent process before an abortion in Alabama.

What This Bill Does

If enacted, the bill would require the ultrasound image of the unborn child to be shown on a screen within the woman’s line of vision before an abortion. It adds requirements for consent and information, including at least 24 hours of notice and in person or mailed printed materials listing alternatives, adoption resources, and risks of abortion and childbirth, with the woman expected to acknowledge what she was offered or viewed. The bill codifies the woman’s right to view the ultrasound and related video, requires a signed consent form, and mandates record retention for at least four years; it also covers information about viability, life preserving steps if applicable, and protections against forcing a woman to have an abortion.

Who It Affects

• Women in Alabama who are considering or seeking an abortion, who would receive additional information, be shown the ultrasound, and sign consent forms.
• Abortion providers, clinics, and staff, who would need to display the ultrasound, provide the required information and materials, obtain and document consent, and retain records for several years.

Key Provisions

• Ultrasound image must be displayed on a screen within the woman’s line of vision before an abortion, and the image must be visible without the woman having to request it.
• Before abortion, the physician or qualified person must provide at least 24 hours’ notice and deliver printed materials listing agencies, adoption options, development of the unborn child, abortion and childbirth risks, and alternatives, with the option to mail these materials.
• The physician must inform the woman in writing or in person of the name of the physician, the proposed method and its risks and alternatives, and the probable gestational age and characteristics of the unborn child; if viable after 19 weeks, the woman has rights related to preserving life and to life-sustaining options.
• The ultrasound must be performed and displayed to the woman, who has the right to view it; the woman must sign a form acknowledging whether she saw the ultrasound, chose not to view it, or was not offered the opportunity.
• The woman has the right to view a videotape and the ultrasound as described in related sections, and information about anti-Rh immune globulin therapy and the consequences of refusing therapy.
• The woman cannot be forced to have an abortion; voluntary and informed consent is required, and withdrawing consent does not affect future care or benefits.
• Signed receipts, forms, and the ultrasound must be kept in the woman’s medical file for at least four years.
• The act becomes effective on the first day of the third month after passage and approval by the Governor.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Abortion