Uncategorized

VA House Passes Transvaginal Ultrasound Bill

The Virginia state House of Delegates voted 63 to 36 to pass a bill requiring that women seeking abortions undergo a transvaginal ultrasound, which requires a probe being inserted into the vagina. Delegate Charniele Herring (D-Alexandria) criticized the bill, saying “We’re talking about inside a woman’s body. This is the first time, if we pass this bill, that we will be dictating a medical procedure to a physician.”

The House also voted down by a vote of 64 to 34 an amendment, which requires the women’s consent for the transvaginal ultrasound probe. This means a probe must be inserted into the woman’s vagina with or without her consent if she seeks an abortion.

The bill will now go to the state Senate. Republican Governor Bob McDonnell indicated that he will sign the bill.

Associated Press 2/15/12; Huffington Post 2/14/12

Support eh ERA banner