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Hearing could set permanent abortion regulations

Posted at 10:38 AM, Jan 27, 2012
and last updated 2012-01-27 10:38:44-05
RICHMOND, Va. (WTVR) – The Virginia Board of Health will host a public hearing to discuss the future of regulations at Virginia abortion clinics Friday.

The state board will hear testimony from women’s healthadvocates, medical experts, and legal experts as it looks to implement the second phase of the regulation process.

The board already approved far-reaching regulations last year on an emergency basis, but now will consider permanent regulations.

The emergency regulations currently in place are being called some of the toughest in the nation, including mandates on the size of exam rooms, the width of hallways, and the number of parking spaces, as well as requirements for inspections, medical procedures and record-keeping.

The regulations went into effect at the end of 2011 after approval from Governor McDonnell and could be in effect for as long as 18 months before the board approves permanent rules.

The hearing is open to the public and will take place at 10am on the second floor of the Perimeter Center in board room 2. The address is 9960 Mayland Drive, Henrico, Virginia 23233.

The board will also accept comments until February 15.

Stay with CBS 6 News and WTVR.com for updates to this story.