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Arkansas House Backs Change To Abortion Clinic Restrictions

Abortion Debate

The Arkansas House has approved a measure requiring the state to suspend or revoke the license of abortion providers for any rule or law violation, a move that opponents say unfairly targets abortion providers.

The House on Monday approved by a 77-8 vote a bill aimed at stiffening regulations for the state's abortion facilities. The measure now heads to the majority-GOP Senate.

A board would require the state to deny, suspend or revoke licenses to abortion facilities for violating any rule or law. A spokeswoman for the Department of Health said those decisions are currently handled on a case-by-case basis.

The lawmaker behind the bill says the move will protect women's health. Planned Parenthood said it unfairly targets abortion facilities.

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