Join

Senate Approves Mandatory Ultrasound Legislation

Senator Charles Colgan showed his support for a bill that would require women to perform a mandatory ultrasound prior to having an abortion performed.

By Michael Bodine
Capital News Service

Richmond, Va. – The Virginia Senate has passed a bill requiring the use of ultrasound testing prior to the performance of an abortion.

The bill, sponsored by Sen. Jill Holtzman Vogel (R-Winchester) now goes to the House of Delegates. If passed – a likely prospect in the Republican-controlled House – the measure will be sent to Gov. Bob McDonnell to be signed into law.

The Senate voted 21-18 in favor of Senate Bill 484 on Wednesday. The bill would require the use of ultrasound testing before an abortion. The woman would then have the option to view the sonograms before terminating her pregnancy.

The Senate Education and Health Committee voted favorably on SB 484 on Jan. 26. The committee, in which Republicans narrowly outnumber Democrats, referred the bill to the Senate floor in a strict party-line vote.

“My expectation is that it will gain a favorable vote in the full Senate,” Vogel said after the committee’s vote. “It is a bill that has had bipartisan support in other states, and I think you will find it has bipartisan support in the Senate of Virginia.”

On Wednesday, the bill did get the support of two Democratic senators, Charles Colgan of Manassas and Phillip Puckett of Tazewell.

One Republican – Sen. John Watkins of Powhatan County – voted against the bill. Democratic Sen. Louise Lucas of Portsmouth did not vote.

Sen. Ralph Northam (D-Norfolk) is a physician who opposed the bill. On Tuesday, he sought to amend Vogel’s bill, prompting senators to delay the vote on SB 484 until Wednesday. On Wednesday, however, Northam’s plea for another delay was shot down.

“It severely and significantly affects the provider-patient relationship,” Northam said. “The government should have nothing to do with it.”

The Family Foundation of Virginia considered the bill’s passage in the Senate to be a major victory for its organization.

“We would like to thank Senator Vogel and Senate leaders who worked with us to ensure the passage of this important measure,” the Family Foundation said on its website.

However, Tarina Keene, executive director of NARAL Pro-Choice Virginia, said in a press release that the proposed law would be detrimental to a woman’s choice and to the physician-patient relationship.

“Women should have the option of having an ultrasound, not forced to undergo an unnecessary procedure prescribed by politicians,” Keene said.

Recent Stories

Stafford residents will have a chance to weigh in on a proposed county government budget that would see the average homeowner pay $276 in Real Estate taxes next year, amounting to an average homeowner’s $3,866 Real Estate tax bill.

Stafford County could get a new skate park at St. Clair Brooks Memorial Park, 80 Butler Road in Falmouth.

Stafford County’s Historical Commission could soon be a thing of the past.

To conduct disaster recovery testing, the Interstate 95/395 E-ZPass Lanes will undergo a double-reversal overnight from March 22 to March 23, 2024.

Are you facing life’s challenges, feeling overwhelmed, or seeking personal growth? Embrace the path to emotional well-being with our expert psychotherapy services!

Why Choose Us?

Our team of compassionate and experienced psychotherapists is here to guide you on your journey to inner peace, self-discovery, and positive change. We provide a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment.

Read More

Submit your own Community Post here.

Dreaming of small-town charm with big-city convenience? Look no further than 7156 Main St in Clifton, Virginia! Nestled just 30 miles from the heart of Washington D.C., this picturesque property offers the best of both worlds.

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city to find tranquility in this quaint, historic town. With its tree-lined streets and friendly community atmosphere, Clifton is the perfect place to call home. Yet, with its close proximity to the nation’s capital, you’ll never be far from the excitement and opportunities of urban living.

Imagine weekends exploring local shops, dining at charming cafes, and enjoying outdoor adventures in nearby parks. Then, commute to D.C. for work or play, soaking in all the culture, entertainment, and career opportunities the city has to offer.

Read More

Submit your own Community Post here.

Van Metre 5K Run

Participate in the 32nd Annual Van Metre 5K Run, a race that goes further than 3.1 miles, and every stride you take supports Children’s National Hospital. The Van Metre 5K Run donates 100% of proceeds to Children’s National Hospital and

×

Subscribe to our mailing list