Regulations on abortion will become Oklahoma law

Abortions based on a child’s sex will be against the law in Oklahoma under a bill signed by the governor Thursday. The measure also carries an abortion reporting requirement that could cost the state nearly $280,000.

House Bill 1595 takes effect Nov. 1.

Beginning in 2011, all doctors will be required to provide information about women ending pregnancies. Supporters say it will help health care officials gather accurate information on why women choose to end pregnancies and the complications associated with abortions. Opponents argued that most abortions in Oklahoma were performed before a baby’s sex is known and the reporting requirement was an invasion of privacy.

"It will be very significant in terms of prohibiting sex selection abortions and also because of the comprehensive reporting the bill provides,” said Tony Lauinger, chairman of Oklahomans for Life. "It will also be helpful in identifying complications of abortion and understanding the damage abortion inflicts on women.”

Doctors, including those who see women who experience complications after an abortion, will be required to submit information to the state Health Department’s database. The state currently tracks nonidentifying information about women receiving abortions, including their age and county of residence. This information is available to the public on a state Web site.

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