Ultrasounds Help Mothers See Humanity of the Unborn

On New Year’s Eve 2004, House Bill 5637 became Public Act 501 of 2004. The bill, which was sponsored by Representative Jack Hoogendyk (R-Kalamazoo), creates a grant program for non-profit organizations that want to buy ultrasound equipment. Under this new law, the Michigan Department of Community Health will control a grant program that will provide funds to nonprofit organizations for the purpose of purchasing ultrasound equipment as long as the organization provides free or reduced cost services to women.

In order to receive a grant the organization must allow the women to view and record (if possible) their ultrasound. Under this law the ultrasound equipment cannot be used to assist in an abortion. This new law passed in the Michigan Senate by a vote of 37-0 and in the Michigan House by a vote of 98-1.
“Ultrasonography allows a woman to see and better understand the development of her unborn child,” said Rep. Hoogendyk. “This program represent an important advance in women’s health. It will also help families better prepare for and understand the miracle of birth. I’m very pleased that ultrasounds will be available to those who couldn’t otherwise afford them.”

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