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SB 252

AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 24 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO THE OFFER OF AN ULTRASOUND AND AUSCULTATION SERVICES BEFORE TERMINATING A PREGNANCY.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Rich Collins and 5 co-sponsors

Delaware bill requires abortion providers to offer ultrasound and fetal heart tone listening services to patients before procedures, potentially increasing costs and delaying care.

Introduced and Assigned to Health & Social Services Committee in Senate
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Bill Summary · SB 252

Legislative bill overview

SB 252 amends Delaware law to require that ultrasound and auscultation (listening to fetal heart tones) services be offered to patients before they undergo abortion procedures. The bill modifies Title 24 of the Delaware Code, which governs reproductive health regulations in the state.

Why is this important

This legislation directly affects abortion access procedures and patient counseling requirements in Delaware. It would establish a new mandatory offering that could influence decision-making timelines, increase procedural costs, and potentially delay care for patients seeking abortion services.

Potential points of contention

  • Informed consent vs. coercion debate: Supporters argue it provides information for informed decision-making; opponents contend mandatory offerings constitute emotional manipulation disguised as medical necessity
  • Cost and access implications: Additional ultrasound services increase procedural expenses and may create scheduling delays, potentially affecting patients with limited resources or time-sensitive circumstances
  • Medical necessity questions: Medical organizations debate whether ultrasound viewing requirements serve clinical purposes or primarily serve to discourage abortion decisions, with disagreement on evidence-based practice standards

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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