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End Of Texas Abortion Clinic Trial Pushed To Next Week

AUSTIN (AP) — A federal judge that will decide whether to block a Texas law that would end abortions at 18 clinics in Texas has pushed closing arguments to next week.

U.S. District Judge Lee Yeakel on Thursday heard the final witnesses in a four-day trial in Austin. The lawsuit was brought by abortion providers challenging a new law that would require their clinics to meet hospital-style operating standards by September 1.

If the law takes effect, the number of places in Texas where women could legally terminate a pregnancy would drop to seven.

The Republican-controlled Legislature passed the law last year. Attorneys for the state argued that meeting the new requirements isn't as expensive or difficult as opponents claim.

Closing arguments are set for Wednesday in Austin. An immediate ruling isn't expected.

(© Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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