Golden State Today

California Attorney General Rob Bonta has issued cease and desist letters to two entities, Cali Choice and LivingHelp Center, concerning their compliance with AB 1720 (Bauer-Kahan). This legislation mandates that ultrasound technology and similar devices be used exclusively in licensed facilities or by licensed providers. In his communication, the Attorney General emphasized that any noncompliance with AB 1720 necessitates an immediate cessation of all ultrasound procedures.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) initiated an investigation this year to ensure adherence to AB 1720, which became effective on January 1, 2024. As part of this inquiry, investigative subpoenas were sent to clinics presumed to be unlicensed. To date, both Cali Choice and LivingHelp Center have failed to respond and may be conducting ultrasounds on pregnant individuals in violation of the law.

"AB 1720 ensures that ultrasound medical procedures are administered by qualified healthcare professionals to provide accurate and safe assessment of both the mother and child," stated Attorney General Bonta. "It is incredibly alarming that both entities have not complied with our subpoenas to show they are not providing unlawful ultrasounds, which not only undermines the integrity of our healthcare system but also poses significant risks to the health and well-being of individuals who may be seeking support during pregnancy. Today’s cease-and-desist letters are a warning that we hope is heeded so that no further enforcement action becomes necessary."

Certain organizations, often referred to as Crisis Pregnancy Centers (CPCs), reportedly use ultrasounds as a tactic to dissuade individuals facing unintended pregnancies from pursuing abortion care. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has indicated that these entities "perform ultrasounds to emotionally manipulate and shame pregnant people under the guise of informing or diagnosing them." ACOG also cautions that CPCs employ ultrasounds to falsely present themselves as legitimate healthcare clinics offering comprehensive reproductive services. The DOJ has issued a consumer alert advising Californians that CPCs do not provide abortion services or comprehensive reproductive care.

Copies of the cease-and-desist letters can be found here and here.