A reproductive facility is pictured in this file photo.NASHVILLE -- A bill mandating 48-hour waiting periods for women seeking an abortion, which also requires counseling by a doctor, was approved by the state House today.
Representatives voted 79 to 18 for the bill. The House added a minor ammendment which the Senate is expected to approve. Gov. Bill Haslam, a Republican, has previously indicated he will sign it into law.
The nearly hour-long, often emotional debate capped a nearly 15-year effort by opportion opponent to restore restrictions struck down by the Tennessee Supreme Court in 2000.
Proponents said the waiting periods and mandatory informed consent provisions are "commonsense protections" for girls and women. But opponents charged the provisions are medical unnecessary and put "undue burdens" on women and trying to restrict access.
Also, a bill subjecting Tennessee abortion clinics to inspections as ambulatory surgical care centers is on its way to Haslam as well.
House members passed the bill, previously approved by senators, on a 79-17 vote.