Dayton Vetoes Abortion Ultrasound Bill

SAINT PAUL, MN — Gov. Mark Dayton Wednesday vetoed a bill that would have required Minnesota doctors to ask patients seeking an abortion if they want to view the ultrasound of their fetus.

"The bill interferes with the doctor-patient relationship, legislating the private conversations that occur about a legal medical procedure," Dayton said in a statement.

"In addition, providers are already fulfilling their legal, ethical, and professional duties to fully inform their patients of the benefits, risks, and alternatives of any medical procedure."

The bill was authored by Republicans Rep. Abigail Whelan of Ramsey and Senator Michelle Benson of Ham Lake.

"This [bill] is about empowering women," Whelan said on the House floor last week. "As a woman and as a legislator, I think more information is better."

She said some women end up regretting their abortion, but this measure would help prevent that.

Planned Parenthood released a statement Wednesday praising Dayton's veto.

"Governor Dayton stood up for patients today," said Sarah Stoesz, president of the Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund.

"We commend him for vetoing this legislation, which is completely unnecessary since women already have the option to view an ultrasound prior to an abortion."

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