The Alabama House has passed legislation that would stiffen the requirements for abortion clinics in the state. Opponents of the bill said the tougher rules would force most abortion clinics to close.
The bill would place requirements on the facilities such as requiring clinics to have wider hallways. The bill would require clinics to have a doctor available when an abortion is performed.
The sponsor, Republican Rep. Mary Sue McClurkin of Pelham, said the new rules would require abortion clinics to meet the same standards as most facilities that perform surgical procedures.
Supporters of the legislation said the rules would ensure the safety of women who have abortions.
The bill now goes to the Senate for debate.
Copyright 2013 The Associated Press.