CA Senate OK Bill On Abortion Clinic Building Code
SACRAMENTO (AP) — The state Senate has approved legislation that would change building code standards for California clinics that perform abortions.
The bill from Democratic Assemblyman Richard Pan of Sacramento would bring construction standards for clinics that perform abortions into line with all other primary care clinics.
Supporters, including the Planned Parenthood Affiliates of California, say there is no reason why clinics providing early-term abortions should have to meet different and more costly standards for plumbing and ventilation.
Republicans opposing the bill said changing the standards would increase risks. Sen. Jim Nielsen of Gerber said even those supporting abortion rights should not want a woman to seek the procedure from an ill-prepared facility.
AB980 cleared the Senate Monday, 25-12, and returns to the Assembly for a final vote.
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