HB 5444 Summary

• Requires testing for fetal heartbeat before performing an abortion and mandates documentation of gestational age, testing method, date/time, and results in the pregnant woman's medical record

• Prohibits abortion if a fetal heartbeat is detected, except in medical emergencies or if no heartbeat is found; violations are felonies punishable by 2-4 years imprisonment, or 6-15 years if the pregnant woman dies

• Requires physicians to inform pregnant women in writing of fetal heartbeat detection and probability of bringing the pregnancy to term, with a 24-hour waiting period and signed acknowledgment before proceeding with abortion; violations are felonies punishable by up to 2 years imprisonment, or up to 6 years if death results

• Pregnant women cannot be prosecuted for violations of the act and may sue providers for violations, recovering $10,000 or damages determined by court, plus attorney fees and court costs

• Applies only to intrauterine pregnancies, does not restrict contraceptives, and takes effect 90 days after enactment