The Virginian-Pilot
©
RICHMOND
Gov. Bob McDonnell has approved new licensing and architectural standards for abortion clinics that supporters say will enhance safety at those facilities, but which foes argue are intended to force many Virginia clinics to close.
That long-expected action was announced Thursday by his administration.
In a short email to reporters about the decision, a spokeswoman for McDonnell said the "governor believes these common-sense regulations will help ensure that this procedure takes place in facilities that are modern, safe and well-regulated, in order to help ensure the safety and well-being of all patients."
The regulations are to remain in place for one year - a window that can be extended by six months - while permanent regulations governing abortion clinics are developed.
Drafting of the current rules began this year after the General Assembly passed a bill that defined clinics as a type of hospital and directed state health officials to create regulations.
In the past, clinics have been treated similarly to other outpatient medical centers such as doctors' and dentists' offices and cosmetic surgery practices where medical professionals must be licensed.
While expected, news of the governor's decision prompted a blistering statement from NARAL Pro-Choice Virginia executive director Tarina Keene, who called the regulations a "political sneak attack on women's health" saying McDonnell has put up another obstacle to access to safe abortions.
Julian Walker, (804) 697-1564, julian.walker@pilotonline.com
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no one likes
No one likes big government more than the republicans and no one likes to limit the legal rights of others than republicans.
comment
Science flies people to the moon, religion flies people into buildings.
Just Remember
So much for less government regulation and intrusion in private decisions eh Governor? Every time you vote for Republicans who run as a fiscal conservatives and say they believes in smaller government and less government regulation and intrusion in private decisions what they really mean is they will use the onerous reach of government to legislate their particular view of morality and religion. Abortion is a medical procedure that is legal in this country. The access to that medical service is Constitutionally guaranteed and McDonnell and his allies on the right have implemented measures which have nothing to do with safety and everything to do with their moral and religious beliefs. Shame on them but shame on us for electing them.
Republicans want gov't just
Republicans want gov't just small enough to fit inside your bedroom.
Irony?
Most people who support abortion oppose the death penalty.
and......
....vice versa.
What facts support that?
What facts support that?
I'd say the liberal agenda.
But that isn't a factual poll. By comparing polls you'll see that most people who support aborion, are against the death penalty and pro gun control. It'll take me a while to find again.
Using GOPT presidential forum rallies as a barometer...
... the GOP not only supports the death penalty (exculpatory evidence be darned), they cheer body counts from their party "leaders" when they speechify to the base.
Who cares anyway?
Most people who support abortion don’t think it kills anyone.