"An Act relating to information and services available to pregnant women and other persons; and ensuring informed consent before an abortion may be performed, except in cases of medical emergency."

Since the early 1970's, Alaskan physicians who perform or induce abortions are required, in regulation, to inform patients "of the medical implications and the possible emotional and physical sequelae of the procedure" (12 A.A.C. 40.070). SB 30 raises these regulations into statute, and standardizes the information presented to the patients by means of a website maintained by the Department of Health and Social Services. This website will list accurate, objective information that explains resources available to a pregnant woman that may assist her in making and implementing her own reproductive decisions. This bill will enable women to make healthy, educated choices regarding their own individual and private circumstances.

Considerable testimony has been received that indicates that Alaskan women, on occasion, do not receive adequate information as they consider the alternative of abortion. These events are extremely damaging and must be prevented. Providing women with information that is "unbiased, objective, scientific" is necessary to their informed choice. This bill creates a website that is mandated to provide such information. Medical personnel who perform abortions are already required in regulation to explain possible consequences. This bill provides physicians with an optional tool that also provides legal coverage for fulfilling the informed consent requirements-which are already required. This tool will protect both women and doctors.

Last Updated: 5/15/2003

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