Kansas House Passes Abortion Clinic Regulations

Legislation tightening regulation of abortion clinics has received final approval in the Kansas House.

Thursday’s 97-26 vote sends the measure to the Senate, where President Steve Morris said he expects a debate and vote Friday.

The House bill requires at least one unannounced inspection of every abortion clinic each year, and gives the state health department authority to fine or close clinics.

Any abortion after the 21st week of pregnancy would have to be done in a hospital or surgical center. And any doctor performing an abortion would have to be affiliated with a hospital within 30 miles.

Supporters say the measure will protect women. Opponents argue it’s an attempt to restrict access to abortion.