HB 5463

Abstract

Amends the Illinois Abortion Law of 1975. Adds various definitions to the Act. Provides that an abortion shall not be performed or induced without the voluntary and informed consent of the patient upon whom the abortion is to be performed or induced. Establishes what circumstances are considered informed consent. Provides that if the medical facility has the necessary equipment, consent to an abortion is voluntary and informed only if at least 24 hours before the abortion, the physician who is to perform the abortion on the pregnant woman, the referring physician, or a qualified person assisting the physician has offered the woman, orally and in person, the opportunity to: (1) view the active ultrasound image of the unborn child and hear the heartbeat of the unborn child if the heartbeat is audible; and (2) receive a physical picture of the ultrasound image of the unborn child. Provides that the Department of Public Health shall cause to be published printed materials and an informational DVD in English and Spanish within 30 days after the effective date of the amendatory Act. Provides that the materials shall include a comprehensive list of the agencies, a description of the services they offer, and the telephone numbers and addresses of the agencies, and shall inform the woman about available medical assistance benefits for prenatal care, childbirth, and neonatal care. Provides that a pregnant woman upon whom an abortion has been performed in violation of the Act, or the parent or legal guardian of that woman if she is an unemancipated minor, may commence a civil action against the abortion provider for any willful violation of the Act for actual and punitive damages.