Permanent abortion clinic regulations considered by Virginia board

The Virginia Board of Health is scheduled to vote on Friday on permanent regulations that are substantially the same as emergency regulations that have been in effect since January 1. In 2011, Virginia’s General Assembly approved legislation requiring most abortion clinics to meet the same strict building standards as new hospital construction. Proponents say the regulations are intended to protect women’s health. On the contrary, critics say the true aim is to reduce access to abortions by driving up costs or putting clinics out of business.

Tarina Keene of NARAL Pro-Choice Virginia, the only board member who voted against emergency regulations last September, says the opponents have made a compelling case against the regulations. She’s hoping more board members will vote “no” this time.