A state bill which would impose regulations on abortion clinics like hospitals cleared two state agencies last week and now needs only Gov. Bob McDonnell's signature to be put into effect.
The Planning and Budget and Health and Human Resources departments approved the bill, which would classify clinics which perform more than five first-trimester abortions per month as hospitals rather than doctor's offices, leading to stricter regulations for these medical practices.
The General Assembly voted Feb. 24 on a bill approving the establishment of new restrictions, making Virginia the first state in the nation to regulate clinics which provide first-trimester abortions. The preliminary regulations were written and proposed by the Virginia Board of Health for approval Sept. 15.
The new hospital standards include, among other things, a parking spot for every bed in the clinic, specific numbers of toilets and different types of sinks hallways which can accommodate the width of two gurneys simultaneously and updated systems for electrical wiring and air circulation flow. The new regulations are also expected to establish new conditions for medical procedures and inspections.
McDonnell's signature would institute the regulations effective Dec. 31. Representatives for the governor could not be reached for comment.
-compiled by Anh Dao
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