On July 5, 2013, Governor Walker (R) signed legislation requiring a woman to have an ultrasound before undergoing an abortion.
The purpose of ultrasound laws, which many states already have, is to give a woman the opportunity to see an image of the fetus before an abortion and therefore make an informed choice. Early in pregnancy, the only way to see a fetus is through transvaginal ultrasound, a procedure that some states with ultrasound laws have opted not to require.
The law also requires abortion providers to have admitting privileges at a local hospital, a requirement that appears difficult to fulfill.
Planned Parenthood said the law could end abortion access at two providers in the state and severely restrict access at its remaining Wisconsin affiliates. Planned Parenthood planned to file suit in federal court to block the law as soon as it was signed.
