Law mandating abortion waiting period passes House committee

The Tennessee House of Representatives meets for the second session of the 107th General Assembly in this file photo.

NASHVILLE -- Legislation requiring informed consent and 48-hour waiting period for women seeking an abortion moved through the House Health Committee this afternoon following a lengthy, sometimes-heated debate.

The Republican-controlled panel approved the bill on a voice vote. It now goes to the Calendar and Rules Committee where it is expected to win easy approval and be scheduled for a floor vote.

Senate Health Committee members approved the measure Tuesday night on a 7-2 vote. It now goes to the Senate floor.