RICHMOND, Va. (AP) _ The debate over new abortion clinic regulations is restarting at the Virginia Board of Health.
Gov. Terry McAuliffe last month directed the board to review the regulations and appointed five new board members who support abortion rights. The board meets Thursday for the first time since receiving the order. Activists on both sides of the abortion issue say they plan to speak during a public comment period.
The regulations adopted last year require existing clinics to meet the same strict building standards as newly constructed hospitals. Supporters say the regulations are intended to protect women’s health, but opponents say the aim is to put clinics out of business.
The board must complete its review by Oct. 1.
