A state Senate committee on Monday approved new rules for abortion providers. If state leaders adopt the bill, Planned Parenthood says it would close its abortion facility in Appleton.
Under the plan, physicians would have to perform or arrange for an ultrasound, for the pregnant woman and describe in detail, what the ultrasound shows. The woman would not be required to view the image. Penalties for violating the ultrasound mandate, could range up to $10,000, and could be sought not only by the woman, but by the father and grandparents of the unborn.
The bill would also require that doctors performing abortions have admitting privileges at a hospital within 30 miles.
According to Planned Parenthood's Nicole Safar, the 30-mile mandate would make it difficult to provide services in the Appleton area, so its clinic would close.
Planned Parenthood also offers abortions in Madison and Milwaukee.
Republican Senator Mary Lazich of New Berlin sponsored the bill.