MS HB1481

Revises informed consent requirements for abortion by requiring physicians to provide women with medically-accurate information about the specific abortion method, immediate and long-term medical risks (including infection, hemorrhage, cervical/uterine perforation, breast cancer risk, and infertility), and alternatives to abortion at least 24 hours before the procedure.

Requires the State Department of Health to develop and maintain printed materials, an informational DVD, and a state website describing fetal development at two-week gestational intervals with pictures, pregnancy support services, paternity/child support information, and contraception methods.

Establishes civil liability for malpractice and professional disciplinary action against physicians who fail to comply with informed consent requirements, allowing women to sue for actual and punitive damages and recover attorney's fees if they prevail.

Creates comprehensive abortion reporting requirements to the Department of Health including physician identification, patient age and residence, gestational age, procedure type, and any complications, with penalties including license suspension or revocation for non-compliance.

Requires tissue examination for first-trimester abortions and pathologist certification of viability for post-first-trimester abortions, with reporting of any findings of live birth or viability to the department within 15 days.