Lawmakers pass abortion-regulation legislation; Bryant intends to sign

JACKSON — Mississippi lawmakers have passed a bill that would require any doctor performing abortions to be a board-certified OB-GYN with admitting privileges at a local hospital.

Senators passed the bill today, but it was held for the possibility of more debate. It passed the House on March 13.

Republican Gov. Phil Bryant says he intends to sign it.

The bill’s supporters say it could shut Mississippi’s only remaining abortion clinic, which is in Jackson.

Senate Public Health Committee Chairman Dean Kirby says he believes none of those performing abortions at the clinic have the certification required under the bill.

However, the clinic administrator has told The Associated Press that all of the physicians who perform abortions at the clinic are certified OB-GYNs, but only one of them has hospital admitting privileges.