COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) – An Ohio bill that would clear the way for what would be one of the nation’s most stringent abortion restrictions is on its way to the governor.
Lawmakers in the Republican-controlled state House voted Tuesday night to approve the so-called “heartbeat bill.” It passed in the Senate earlier in the day.
The legislation would prohibit most abortions as early as six weeks into pregnancy after the first detectable heartbeat. Similar measures elsewhere have faced legal challenges, and detractors in Ohio fear such legislation will lead to a costly fight in the courts. Opponents predict it will be found unconstitutional if it becomes law.
Republican Gov. John Kasich, an abortion opponent, has previously voiced concerns about whether such a move is constitutional.