Want an Abortion? Not Without a Sonogram, Texas Says

As if women facing abortions were not troubled enough, Texas Gov. Rick Perry is expected to soon sign a law that will require them “to have a sonogram and hear a description of the fetus, including whether it has developed fingers, toes or internal organs” before having the operation.

In a feeble attempt at mercy, the state’s legislators have provided for some exceptions: Women who live more than 100 miles from a clinic are not required to observe the 24-hour waiting period between the sonogram and the operation, and those who have been raped, are underage or are enduring abnormal pregnancies do not have to hear the fetus’ description. –ARK

The Wall Street Journal:

We believe that when they see the miracle of life some will change their minds,” said Dan Patrick, a Republican state senator who represents part of Houston and who sponsored the legislation, which passed both houses of the state legislature last week.

… The Texas bill also calls for a 24-hour waiting period between the sonogram and the abortion, except for women who live more than 100 miles from a clinic. Opponents say that waiting period places more burdens on women.

… Under the Texas law, all women seeking an abortion must have a sonogram but those who have been raped, are minors or who are carrying a fetus with abnormalities are exempt from hearing the description of the image. All women seeking abortions can sign a waiver and choose not to view the image or hear the fetus’s heartbeat.

Read more