Legislature Sends Lieu's Ultrasound Bill To Governor

(Sacramento, CA) – The State Assembly today gave final approval to Assembly Bill (AB) 2360 by Assemblymember Ted Lieu (D-Torrance), which would limit sale of ultrasound machines to those trained in their use. The vote was 54-5.

“I’m very happy to see such a bipartisan vote,” said Assemblymember Lieu. ”Members on both sides saw this as a common sense measure - ultrasound machines are medical devices, not playthings.”

Just two weeks ago, a researcher from Yale University released a study of the effects of ultrasound demonstrating that, if used improperly, they could cause neurological damage to fetuses. Other studies have shown that they could also adversely affect the mother, causing internal liquid and gases to heat up.

While some ultrasound machines cost more than $100,000, new, smaller used models are available for as little as $3,000.

“My bill is a public safety measure based on hard science,” Lieu said. “Medical professionals go to school for years to learn to use these devices properly. They shouldn’t be available to the general public.”

AB 2360 enjoys broad support from Medical providers, including the California Medical Association, The American College of Obstetrician Gynecologists – District IX, and the California Chapter of the American College of Radiology.

The 53rd Assembly District, which Assembly Lieu represents, includes the cities of Torrance, Lomita, Redondo Beach, Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach, El Segundo, and portions of West Los Angeles.