H.R. 797 — Ultrasounds Save Lives Act of 2025

This section requires any abortion provider acting in or affecting interstate or foreign commerce to perform an ultrasound and obtain a signed Informed Consent Authorization form from the woman seeking an abortion 24 hours prior to the procedure, except in cases of medical emergency posing risk of death or substantial irreversible physical impairment (excluding psychological conditions). The form, signed in person by the woman, provider, and a witness and retained in the patient's medical file, must state (1) the probable gestational age in completed days; (2) all medical risks of the procedure or abortion-inducing drugs; (3) major developmental characteristics of the unborn child at that age, including heartbeat presence, ability to react to painful stimuli, and development of organs, appendages, and facial features; (4) confirmation of ultrasound performance and results sharing; (5) notice of criminal and civil penalties and the woman's right to sue for violations; and (6) an affirmation of understanding. Violations are subject to civil penalties enforced by the Attorney General of $100,000-$150,000 for a first violation and $150,001-$250,000 for subsequent violations per violation, with notification to state medical licensing authorities (pregnant women are exempt from penalties). The section further establishes a private right of action for the woman or parent of a minor, allowing objectively verifiable damages, statutory damages equal to three times the abortion cost, punitive damages, and attorney's fees (except no damages if the pregnancy resulted from the plaintiff's criminal conduct; prevailing defendants receive fees if the suit is frivolous).